More Than 600 Gift Bags Delivered As Part of CPD’s 14th Annual Secret Santa for Seniors Program

More than 600 senior residents throughout the City of Cambridge received surprise gift bags this week thanks to the Cambridge Police Department's Secret Santa for Seniors Program. Officers, staff and members of the Auxiliary Unit delivered bags of much needed food items, clothes, blankets, books and more directly to residents and Cambridge Housing Authority buildings following generous donations from residents, businesses and sponsors. This year's sponsors were the Cambridge Housing Authority, Cambridge Police Patrol Officers Association, Cambridge Police Superior Officers Association, Foundation Medicine, Gentle Giant Moving, HRI Cambridge, MIT, Mount Auburn Hospital, the Office of Mayor Siddiqui, the Peretti Family, Phil's Towing, Pro EMS, Reservoir Church, Star Market, Target, Trader Joe's, U-Haul Central Square and Whole Foods.

Most of the people we deliver gifts to don't have family members, and they are typically alone for the holidays," said Cambridge Police Sergeant Susan Kale, one of the co-organizers of this year’s gift drive. “Through the generosity of hundreds throughout the City, this year was one of our biggest years yet. We weren’t sure what to expect with the pandemic and the financial hardships many are presently experiencing, but Cambridge once again came through and we are deeply appreciative for everyone’s participation.” 

“Cambridge Police Department’s annual tradition of hosting a gift drive for Cambridge seniors during the holidays, is one that I love and look forward to each year,” said Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui. “I am honored to play a part in this tradition during a year that has been particularly difficult for our seniors, and to include a gift that will hopefully provide comfort and joy this holiday season.”

Now in its 14^th year, the Cambridge Police Department’s “Secret Santa for Seniors”gift drive has brought joy to thousands of senior citizens. This year’s drive was primarily online to make it easier and safer for people seeking to purchase gifts for seniors. Residents were encouraged to support local businesses by purchasing gifts through various Cambridge business associations. 

To watch a video from this year’s outreach, please visit https://youtu.be/ZX5_XoOMKoE.