El Monte POA Spreads Holiday Cheer to Bridge the Gap Between Law Enforcement and Community
For the past three Decembers, the jolly man in the red suit has received crucial assistance in bringing seasonal cheer and goodwill to the eastern L.A. County community of El Monte. Decked out in his signature color and riding in a “sleigh” better suited to the snowless streets of Southern California — the El Monte Police Department’s BearCat SWAT vehicle — Blue Santa leads a festive caravan of law enforcement officers and local officials around town, delivering gifts to families experiencing hardship and helping them enjoy a happier holiday. Organized by the El Monte Police Officers Association’s charitable nonprofit, the El Monte Police Officers Foundation (EMPOF), Operation Blue Santa is unique in its approach to providing essential support to city residents who have been impacted by poverty, crime and tragedy. Recipients are identified by gathering nominations and applications from citizens, but also through recommendations by the department’s homicide detectives and other officers who have worked with families who are victims of crime or otherwise struggling, enabling law enforcement to go above and beyond their regular duties by delivering direct aid to those who need it most. From soliciting donations from individuals and businesses to preparing the gifts at public “wrap parties,” celebrating Blue Santa’s arrival in style and then making surprise visits to distribute presents all over town, the event is a stellar example of peace officers building partnerships to strengthen the community they serve — all in the spirit of joy, fun and generosity.
We spoke with EMPOF Executive Director Paula Ramirez, a longtime Los Angeles law enforcement and political consultant, to learn more about Operation Blue Santa and its effect on officers and the community.
What inspired Operation Blue Santa?
The tumultuous events of 2020 negatively impacted law enforcement nationwide, with officers facing scrutiny and hostility. Our foundation sought to establish a compassionate bridge between our police department and the communities we serve. Operation Blue Santa serves as that bridge — nonpartisan, understanding and ready to help.
When and how did this program get started?
Launched in 2023, Operation Blue Santa was created in response to heightened anti-police sentiment. The initiative aims to assist families identified through our police department — specifically, through officer interactions and our detective bureau — who have experienced crime or face unique hardships. The goal is to show that our officers care beyond difficult moments, bringing kindness and light during the holiday season. The Blue Santa symbol represents the blue of our law enforcement uniforms and embodies our commitment to service.
How has the program grown and developed over time?
Operation Blue Santa began informally in 2023 to gauge community response and need. We called upon our social media networks and department to identify families in need, initially assisting five families that year. As word spread about our program, requests surged in 2024, allowing us to support 25 families. This year, we are assisting approximately 40 families. Last year, residents throughout the city caught wind of our efforts, and we were bombarded by children running out of homes eager to meet Blue Santa. Some residents even called 9-1-1 asking for Santa to be sent to their homes — which, although it was not the best use of emergency services, reflected the excitement and interest.
This year, we wanted Blue Santa to arrive in a big way, so he landed via an L.A. County Sheriff’s Department airship at the San Gabriel Valley Airport. His caravan and BearCat were ready and waiting to make their way into the community.
This year, one of the community members we’re supporting is a 71-year-old grandfather. He assumed custody of his grandchildren (ages 6 and 9) to prevent their placement into foster care. They had been removed from their mother’s custody, and he was their last hope. Although he no longer drives, he takes them to school and doctors’ appointments using Uber or public transportation. Operation Blue Santa will visit his home this year, providing toys, groceries and Uber gift cards to ease his burden.
Additionally, we are assisting a domestic violence survivor who recently relocated to our city. Referred to us by an officer while filing her restraining order, she was unaware of Operation Blue Santa but was told we may be able to help her this Christmas. Starting over with her children, she requested essential items — pots, pans, bedding, a microwave and maybe a small TV — having lived in a women’s shelter for the past six months. She stated that even though she needed these items, the best Christmas gift was the safety of her and her children, and finally having peace. Operation Blue Santa will provide her with the requested necessities, along with plenty of toys for her children.
One exciting aspect of Operation Blue Santa is that selected families have no idea a caravan is coming to their home. With full lights and sirens, the surprise of Santa arriving adds a magical element to the experience. Families also do not know what they will receive until Santa arrives, and many are provided cash grants based on need, further easing their burdens during the holidays.
How does the program work?
Operation Blue Santa invites anyone in our community to reach out via social media, email or direct contact with our board members to complete a brief screening application. This helps us understand each family’s specific needs and circumstances. Our goal is to maximize our positive impact on families who could benefit from the Blue Santa spirit during the holidays.
Who are the key partners and volunteers who make Operation Blue Santa successful?
We are grateful for the support of two major L.A. County police unions: the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALADS) and the Professional Peace Officers Association (PPOA). Their backing has been instrumental in our efforts this year. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to our own El Monte Police Officers Association, our Chief Jake Fisher and all department members for their unwavering support of this initiative.
Our board consists of three active officers with the El Monte Police Department: President Detective Adam Girgle, Vice President Corporal Clayton Duran and Treasurer Officer Andrew Nakamura. All serve in a volunteer capacity, along with me. Our board is wholly dedicated to serving the community, ensuring that Operation Blue Santa makes a meaningful impact on families facing hardships. We are also thankful for our local businesses, sponsors, supporters and partners.
What are some of the most challenging parts of organizing this?
Fundraising remains a significant challenge for our 501(c)(3) police foundation, especially after the tumultuous past five years. Convincing individuals to support law enforcement initiatives has proven difficult. We strive to host low-cost events with high fundraising potential, such as our annual golf tournament, which sells out months in advance, along with smaller events like whiskey and cigar nights, Movember activities, cornhole tournaments and raffles.
What are some of the most rewarding parts of this event?
The most rewarding aspect of Operation Blue Santa is witnessing the joy and connection between officers and children during the Santa caravans. Officers engage directly with children (often the first interaction), creating positive encounters with law enforcement that leave lasting impacts.
How does this program help further the mission of the El Monte POA?
Operation Blue Santa aligns with the El Monte POA’s mission by fostering strong relationships between the police department and the community, reinforcing our commitment to service.