PITTSBURGH — The Christmas season has been saved for thousands of military families in our area.
Operation Santa is once again poised to host their holiday carnival and gift-giving event at the old Sears at the Mall at Robinson.
Organizer Kristi Hilbert received the good news Friday, after speaking with Channel 11 Thursday night.
In our original story, we told you Hilbert was notified Wednesday at 5 p.m. that the lease for the old Sears space was being revoked by Transformco, the company that owns it.
That decision came despite mall leadership and other tenants supporting the event.
On Friday, Hilbert learned that Transformco reversed its decision and will be allowing Operation Santa to begin moving into the old Sears on Monday.
“I think it’s great that so many people saw what was wrong with that decision and I’m super happy that the company decided to change course and give us the space back, because it really is a great space and we’re super happy to work with the Robinson Mall and all of their tenants to make sure that this is a win-win for everyone and encourage people to stay and shop at the mall and enjoy all of the things that our community has to offer,” Hilbert said.
Following the announcement Friday, the Mall at Robinson sent Channel 11 this statement, which reads in part, “We could not be happier that this has reached resolution so that children of military families throughout the region can enjoy this special holiday celebration as well as receive our respect and gratitude for their service and sacrifice.”
The event providing family fun, food, and gifts to families of actively-serving military members, Gold Star families, and Veterans in need is scheduled for December 9, and a second event, aimed at providing the same for families of all veterans is set for December 16.
Operation Santa says it is only about one-third of the way to its fundraising goal of $150,000.
If you’re interested in volunteering or donating, click here.
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