Santa gets some help from NYPD officers on Staten Island
NEW YORK -- There was a new mission for some members of the NYPD's Highway Patrol on Monday. They escorted Santa Claus and some special cargo to a special needs school on Staten Island, where they spread holiday cheer.
"It's the best feeling in the world. This is amazing," Sgt. Dominick Gatto said.
Members of the Highway Patrol squad, decked in festive attire, transformed into jolly St. Nick and his elves, hoping to inspire.
"The motorcycle is set up as the reindeers. Santa's sleigh, which is our van," one member said.
Their motorcycles roared, and like reindeer they flew to the special education school on Major Avenue.
"Once we pull up we see those smiles and those cheers. It's pretty much the best day of the year," the Highway Patrol's Christopher Signorile said.
"Today, we have a gift for each child, a shopping bag, NYPD coloring book," Det. Tommy Cerbone said.
Pre-K to eighth grade students and their parents welcomed Sgt. Santa with glee. For a moment, all worries and cares were set free.
"It really is such a touching event for all the kids and even the parents to see them with such joy," parent Kristin Guzzo said.
"This is so beautiful, so wonderful, blessed to be here," Christine O'Neill said.
"Teacher Julie Czapalski urged one youngster to yell "Merry Christmas."
The Seton Foundation for Learning allows children with physical and sensory differences to grow in an accessible space, so Santa skipped the mall to come right to their place.
"A lot of times, kids can't go into the mall. (It's) overstimulating at the mall much more so, so they can't go see Santa someplace else, but they can see him here," said Diane Taranto, principal of the Seton Foundation of Learning.
This year marks the toy drive's 11th year. The event touches not only the hearts of the students, but it's clear it also leaves a mark on the officers.
"It's emotional for us, because ... we love to do this. We look forward to it. When that child looked into my eyes, jumped on me, gives me a hug, I melted ... not a big tough guy now," Gatto said.
Off the clock, this team of officers volunteers each year. Beyond delivering toys, they're bringing joy and cheer.