Dennis Mann, 74, and a Rhode Island native, has been making public appearances as Santa Claus across New England for the past 20 years, but due to COVID-19 in 2020, this years Christmas season has been very different for him. Unlike the busy schedule that Santa Dennis is typically used to with various events like mall appearances, parties, at-home visits, and parades, this year he had to lay low with all public appearances for the holiday season. “I’ll really miss the smiles of the kids and the families this year.” Santa had said when asked what he will miss the most this Christmas. “The personal connection you have with each kid is for sure something that will be missed this year for everyone.” However, the pandemic did not stop him from bringing the spirit of Christmas to communities in Rhode Island.

“Helping is something we can still do, and it’s especially important for us this year,” Dennis said. Every year Santa Dennis and his partner Sheila, 75, donate $11,000 worth of toys and food to places like Operation Stand Down of Rhode Island. This non-profit organization provides services for Rhode Islands’ homeless, at-risk veterans. They also donate to Crossroads Rhode Island and Crossroads Family Shelter, which specialize in housing services to those experiencing homelessness. “My kids will not go without toys this year.” Mrs.Claus Sheila said when packing toys, backpacks, and food to donate.

“I’m most worried because I’m immunocompromised...” Santa said as he explained why he was not doing any in-person appearances this year, “but I’ll still be doing a few video calls to some family.” Although Santa and Mrs.Claus were able to bring the spirit of Christmas to Rhode Island this time around without public appearances, they are both hoping that next year will be back to the usual busy routine when the holidays swing around.