Rhine Post VFW 2729 and Auxiliary held their annual Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 14, at 5858 S. Archer Ave. in Chicago.
“We’ve had a great turnout today even though it’s so cold out,” said Commander Charlie Johnson.
The post served all-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage from 8:30-11:30 a.m., along with cakes and cookies. Children received gifts from Toys For Tots and visited Santa.
“The kids get excited because they get to pick out a toy,” Johnson said. “Toys For Tots supplies the toys, they are a wonderful organization.”
Auxiliary member Diane Pencak, who has been with the post for 41 years, helped coordinate the event.
“We have a wonderful turnout every year,” Pencak said. “It’s been going on over 40 years, and we love doing it for the kids.”
Johnson said the VFW also hosts a popular Breakfast with the Easter Bunny.
23rd Ward Ald. Silvana Tabares attended with her son Michael.
“I’ve been bringing my son Michael every year since he was a baby and he always looks forward to it,” Tabares said. “We are so lucky to have a great VFW who not only served our country as heroes, but continue their heroism by still giving back to our neighborhood.”
