All Started With a Chili Cookoff.
Back in 1984, a group of Sullivans Island school teachers decided to host a chili cookoff to raise money for a local family in need. One pot led to another, and Friends of Santa was born. Today, we’re still fueled by the same simple idea: neighbors helping neighbors.
We’re a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit serving families East of the Cooper. That means no salaries, no overhead, and no reindeer games. Just big hearts, generous spirits, and a whole lot of wrapping paper.
Whether it’s Christmas gifts, clothes, food, utility bills, or school supplies, we’re here to help families feel hope, joy, and community.
Helping Families in Need East of the Cooper
That’s it. That’s the mission. No fine print. Just a team of locals making sure families feel supported, especially when times are tough. Whether it’s December or July, we’re here to help with gifts, groceries, hygiene items, or a shoulder to lean on.
What Makes Us Different
✔️ We’re 100% volunteer-run
✔️ Every dollar (minus tiny admin fees) goes directly to families
✔️ We partner directly with school social workers to identify real needs
✔️ We cover everything from holiday gifts to spring hygiene kits
✔️ We’ve been doing this for over 40 years and we’re just getting started
Local Hearts. Big Impact.
Fueled by Cocoa and Kindness
Our volunteers are parents, neighbors, business owners, spreadsheet wizards, gift-wrapping pros, and snack-bringers. Some wear Santa hats. Others run point on logistics with military-grade precision. All of them care deeply about the families we serve.
Whether you want to shop, wrap, donate, or help us load up sleighs (aka SUVs), we’d love to have you on the team.