By Joselyn Villalobos For the Apple Valley Review
Ten years ago, Cadillac Ranch Saloon owner Allison Moye and two of her friends set out to make a difference during the holidays.
In 2006, Moye found herself in a financial position to help others and did so when she heard about an ill single mother struggling to get by. Moye took it upon herself to buy presents for the women's children, supply holiday decorations and provide them with dinner.
Those heartfelt actions evolved six years later into a nonprofit organization Moye and her partner’s would call “Shopping With Santa,” a fundraiser that aims to grant underprivileged kids Christmas wishes.
The proceeds allow 100 local underprivileged kids to go into the Wal-Mart in Apple Valley with $100 each to spend. While the children shop, they’re accompanied by Santa, Mrs. Clause and their 25 helping elves.
Moye, along with her partners Pat Rose and Christy Green, have been engaged in the fundraiser for six years now. All three of the women have never had any of their own children, so they feel this is their way to give back to children in need.
“My husband and I have been trying to have a child for years now, so it brings joy to see other children be happy,” Green said. “This fundraiser is like our baby.”
On Dec. 17, the selected local kids will ride with the elves to Wal-Mart in jeeps provided by private owners where they will be provided with free juice and cookies as they shop for their holiday wishes. When it comes time for checkout, the children will head to special registers designated for the kids only.
Although “Shopping with Santa” focuses specifically on children, the founding trio also offers help to families in need. Last year, they came across a family of two boys, a father and a mother diagnosed with cancer, but with the help of donations, the family was able to receive a Thanksgiving dinner, a much-needed car and a decorated Christmas tree along with gifts.
“It is just my character to help people. I am 58 years old and I have helped people since I was a kid, it makes me happy,” Rose said. “I just wish there was more people that did what we do. We have a large valley but a small community.”
There is no minimum donation required for those wishing to give to "Shopping with Santa," all donations are bundled into accumulations of $100. If someone wishes to sponsor a specific child, such as a neighbor or family friend who is in need, they can do so by bringing the $100 donation and the child's information to Cadillac Ranch.
Anyone who wishes to donate can drop off their donation at the Cadillac Ranch Saloon located at 22581 Outer Highway 18 South in Apple Valley.