Santa on the Bayou toy distribution for kids a big hit at St. Bernard Catholic Church

Visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Santa on the Bayou toy distribution are, at left, Daylen McNeill being held by Mrs. Claus, portrayed by Jessica Naquin, and Alden McNeill, being held by Santa, portrayed by Darrall Monk.	With Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Santa on the Bayou Celebration are Jaquanna Sylve, standing; Mrs. Claus, portrayed by Philomene Serigne, who is holding Jayden Sylve and Jaqua Sylve; and Santa, portrayed by Frank Gioe; holding Jaylon Sylve and Jayni Sylve.
A large crowd waits in line outside to enter the building to meet with Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves.	Sheriff James Pohlmann, with daughter Victoria, who danced on the stage with a group from Our Lady of Prompt Succor for the Santa on the Bayou event, talks with Anthony Fernandez Jr., at right, director of the annual festival.

Summer-Rain Hills, 2, carries the present she received from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

It was cold and at times misting rain, but it hardly affected the turnout for the 14th annual Santa on the Bayou toy distribution to children on Saturday Dec. 7 on the grounds of St. Bernard Catholic Church on Bayou Road in the eastern part of the parish.

The giveaway, which includes Christmas-themed entertainment by young people, drew its usual large crowd of about 1,000. Hot chocolate was a favorite because of the chill.

Anthony Fernandez Jr., director of the annual celebration which originated years ago with a Christmas boat parade in eastern St. Bernard, said the event draws about the same each year.

“People who come out get stuck on (the event) and they come back to help,’’ Fernandez said.

“I thought turnout was excellent considering the weather,’’ Fernandez said.

Toys, food, drinks and other items given out are provided through individuals and companies in St. Bernard, he said. “We are thankful for our sponsors.” Santa on the Bayou is a non-profit group and contributions are deductible, he said.

Sheriff’s Office Reserve Division deputies provided security and Sheriff James Pohlmann attended, as well as other public officials including Parish President David Peralta, Council member Monty Montelongo, who represents the area, Council member Casey Hunnicutt and Constable Tony Guerra, who represents the area.