On Tuesday, December 10, two local community service groups, SOS Health Care and gsSCENE, are teaming up to host the 7th annual Substitutes for Santa. During this time of year, there are many opportunities to donate and help others, but this unique event allows you to give a present that can’t be bought: your time. The groups’ goal is to bring holiday happiness to less fortunate children from the Loris area.  

The fun starts at Ultimate California Pizza Game Zone, where kids and volunteers are grouped together so they can get to know each other while playing games and eating pizza. The groups then head to Wal-Mart, where they use provided gift cards to shop for items the children need and toys from their wish lists. Thanks to this special evening, more than 70 children get to experience a merry Christmas.

This event is made possible by sponsorships and contributions from local organizations. Volunteers and donations are still needed. The deadline to register to be a volunteer is November 29. You can register at www.gsSCENCE.com or call Shannon Furtick at (843) 916-7240. If you want to help but can’t volunteer, you can drop off monetary donations or other items including toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner at the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce.

So get on Santa's nice list this year by spreading joy to those who need it most. –L.F.

Substitutes for Santa
5–8 p.m.  Tuesday, December 10
Ultimate California Pizza Game Zone and Wal-Mart
(843) 916-7240
www.gsSCENE.com