News

Being hospitalized during the holidays can be especially difficult for children, leading to withdrawal, gloom and resentment, as they miss out on the festivities and fun at home and in school.

To help combat loneliness, reduce anxiety and restore a sense of normalcy and hope to the young patients at South Texas Health System Children’s this holiday season, the facility is partnering with the Texas DPS Troopers Foundation to welcome Trooper Santa for the second consecutive year.

On Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., the pediatric patients at STHS Children’s will have the chance to interact with Trooper Santa, a former Texas Department of Public Safety trooper who leads a region-wide initiative to collect and distribute new and unwrapped toys to children in need across South Texas, including those in the care of STHS Children’s.

“Trooper Santa’s special visit to STHS Children’s is about more than spreading holiday cheer to the young patients in the facility’s care; it’s about providing them a vital distraction from their treatments and illness, a way to offer hope and create positive memories that they’ll carry with them long after their hospital stay,” says Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “During his debut last December, Trooper Santa offered our patients a moment of joy, wonder and play that helped turn their worry into happiness during a challenging time. We’re thrilled to welcome him back for another round of festive holiday cheer!”

During his special visit, which will take place in the STHS Children’s third floor pediatric playroom, Trooper Santa will distribute gifts, participate in a special coloring activity and take photos with those receiving care at STHS Children’s.

Trooper Santa will also go room to room to visit patients unable to leave their hospital rooms due to doctor’s orders.

If you’d like to help Trooper Santa spread holiday cheer this Christmas, you’re invited to take part in the Troopers, Toys & Teddy Bears Toy Donation Drive. Hosted by Texas Department of Public Safety Officers Association, the Texas DPS Troopers Foundation, STHS and Divine Pharmacy, the program benefits underprivileged and hospitalized children in South Texas, including those in the Rio Grande Valley.

Now through Friday, December 21, 2025, toys valued at a $5 minimum can be dropped off in the donation boxes placed near the registration/security desks at the main entrances at all STHS locations.

For more information, contact the STHS Marketing Department via email, sthsmarketing@uhsinc.com, or call 956-388-2020.