Operation Blue Santa was started in 1972 by officers with the Austin Police Department who saw a need to provide assistance and share the Christmas experience with less fortunate residents of Austin. The first year, 20 families were provided Christmas dinner and gifts for the children. Today, Operation Blue Santa is a non-profit organization led by the Austin Police Department with the support from the Austin Fire Department, Austin Parks and Recreation and The Texas National Guard. Their goal is to serve over 3500 Austin families this year which is approximately 15,000 children.

On Sunday, December 7th at 6pm the Austin Parks and Recreation Department will hold the annual Zilker Tree Lighting in Zilker Metropolitan Park. In addition to the ceremony, the department presents "Giving to Others" an opportunity for the citizens of Austin to donate toys and/or cash to Operation Blue Santa. Collection of any new unwrapped toy appropriate for ages 12 and under will be located under the "Blue Santa" tent at the tree lighting ceremony. Blue Santa will be on site to visit with children and accept donations.