Lawrence Police Blue Santa

About Us

How the Blue Santa Program Started

The Lawrence Blue Santa Program is a community-focused initiative founded in 2011 by the men and women of the Lawrence, Kansas Police Department. Created to extend a helping hand to our neighbors within the city limits, Blue Santa is rooted in the spirit of compassion, service, and community care.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide year-round support to individuals and families in need, ensuring no one in Lawrence faces difficult times alone. Through an officer-based referral program, we connect those in need with essential resources, assistance, and community support.

What We Do

Lawrence Blue Santa operates 365 days a year, providing aid to those experiencing financial hardships, unexpected challenges, or moments of crisis. We partner with local organizations, businesses, and community members to deliver meaningful assistance where it’s needed most. From holiday gifts to basic necessities, we aim to bring relief, joy, and hope to those we serve.

Our Impact Over the Years

Year	# of Families	# of Children	Cost of Grocery Store Gift Cards	Total # of Gifts Provided
2011	82	210	$2,050	630
2012	191	465	$4,775	1,395
2013	186	426	$4,650	1,278
2014	178	401	$5,125	1,203
2015	199	499	$7,653	1,497
2016	199	496	$4,975	1,488
2017	223	584	$6,125	1,752
2018	209	475	$5,225	1,425
2019	209	496	$5,225	1,488
2020	322	758	$8,050	5,306
Total	1,576	3,730	$53,853	17,462

Sergeant Meagan Shipley and her family delivering gifts to children in Lawrence.

The toy store was set up in 2019 at Dale Willey automotive, in their showroom

An officer referred a young man to Blue Santa who had his bicycle stolen.

After gifts were wrapped by volunteers, they were staged for delivery by date and time

Detective Meghan Bardwell and her family deliver gifts to children in Lawrence

Officer Hunt delivered gifts to a family in need in Lawrence after discovering the teen in the family was working multiple jobs to support his family.

Kelsey Pence with LKPD and Breanna Pence with DGSO deliver gifts to children in Lawrence.

JM Smucker is a huge supporter of Blue Santa every year. We thank them for their continued generosity year after year.

We give back to the community with our own time as well. In May, 2022, we made May Day flower baskets for the elderly and delivered them to retirement communities in Lawrence.

Help us make a difference in our community.

Lawrence Blue Santa is here to support not just children, but families in our community all year round. Your donation provides essential items, gifts, and services that make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.