I’m two days late in posting this as it started Monday, but the Bend Fire and Rescue Santa Express is back this week, and will continue to run through Thursday evening. Here’s the press release (which I just received Monday as well, which would have been good sooner):

Bend Fire and Rescue’s annual Christmas Food Drive, known as Santa’s Express, is kicking off tonight and will run through Thursday evening. Each year, firefighters decorate an engine and, working with the Salvation Army, drive (and walk) slowly through pre-designated neighborhoods, so residents can bring out non-perishable food, toys and warm clothing for needy families. Santa Claus also comes along for the ride, in his sleigh.

Firefighters, their families and community groups will walk alongside the engine and the sleigh, receiving donations and spreading good cheer. Tonight, the Girl Scouts are assisting the firefighters.

The program description and route maps are located on the City of Bend website (https://www.bendoregon.gov/santaexpress). If you do not live on the routes, you can donate at any fire station or at all Starbucks stores. You can also call Bend Fire and Rescue at 541-322-6300 for more information.

Bend Fire and Rescue is grateful to those who volunteer and all the community members and organizations who donate or assist us with this worthy cause. Without your help and generosity, many needy families would have a tougher time this winter.

Thank you, all who have helped and will help us help others!

And here’s the schedule for tonight and Thursday:

Wednesday December 4: South Bend – Foxborough, Larkspur and Sun Meadow Neighborhoods. Click here for the full map.

Thursday December 5: Southwest Bend – Quail Pines, Pine Ridge, River Canyon, Forest Meadow and Aspen Rim Neighborhoods. Click here for the full map.

We start nightly in each neighborhood around 6pm and walk slowly down the streets. Listen for all the sirens and look for Santa as we come down the street. We have volunteers that will come all the way to your door to collect any donations you can provide.

There are also boxes at these locations that you can donate to if you don’t catch the Santa Express the next couple nights:

• Any Bend Fire Department fire stations (maps)
  • SW Simpson Ave
  • Jamison Ave
  • Hamby Rd
  • Country Club Dr
  • Tumalo
• Salvation Army Headquaters – 515 NE Dekalb Ave
• Central Oregon Starbucks Locations
  • Bend – Century Dr, Colorado Ave, Wall St, Fred Meyer Rd, 27th St, Cascade Village Mall
  • Redmond – SW Rimrock Way, SW Canal Blvd
  • Prineville – NE 3rd St

Donate!