3,807 toys made their way through the hallways of Bishop Feehan through a toy chain of students passing down the various gifts. Eventually, they will end up in the cafeteria, turned into a make-shift toy store, which in a few hours would be filled with a sea of families. The 30th annual Santa Shop at Bishop Feehan occurred on December 12th, 2025. Its purpose is to help provide less fortunate families who may not be able to afford gifts for the Christmas season, the opportunity to pick out gifts, donated by the Feehan community, for their children. Before families arrived, students used their X period to help bring all 3,807 gifts into the cafeteria. The event is very spirited and busy, with lots of families being helped by Feehan students, guiding them around, and helping them pick out thoughtful gifts for their children.
The first Santa Shop was created in 1995 by Feehan alum and current theology teacher Mrs. Legg ‘79. You would think that it has evolved with major changes now that it’s been 30 years, but according to Mrs. Demers, “There haven’t been any major changes; we just try to make it more and more efficient with a few tweaks every year.” This strategy definitely plays a role in how successful and consistent it is every year.
Mrs. Demers has been involved in the program for 17 years. Her jobs have changed over the years, but her current one is probably her favorite. “My job is kind of floating around the different areas during the event, which is why I love it. I get to see all of the different things being done and the connections being made. The students and families telling their stories and making connections is my favorite part.” Some of the 480 students who volunteered may have originally signed up for the event purely for the service hours, but once you experience it, you want to be there. It can really change your heart, knowing how much it helps the families during the holidays. Santa Shop is a great way to make new connections and serve others.
