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Special kids get to meet Santa in Langley

13th annual Breakfast with Santa fundraiser
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An elf reads holiday stories. Black Press photo

Some special kids had a very special time at the 13th annual Breakfast with Santa fundraiser at the Langley Golf and Banquet centre Saturday.

There was a chance to have a picture taken with Santa, to hear stories told by an elf and to take a ride on a holiday train.

Cora Boecker with the Inclusion Langley Society Child Development Services said the popular event gives families of children with extra needs an “inclusive breakfast with Santa that offers a safe place.”

There were three seatings, all virtually sold-out, with 450 people attending.

Boecker said the event raises between $5,000 to $10,000 each year.

Outside, Keith Drummond of Pacific Trackless Trains was giving rides in a 35-year-old miniature train.

“We come out here every year to support the kids with special needs,” Drummond said.

He explained the train was found about four years ago abandoned in a barn at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds.

Built 35 years ago, based on its engine serial number, the train is unique in that it was constructed from scratch to resemble a real steam train, unlike newer versions that use covered-up ride-em lawn mowers and look more like toys.

Langley Association for Community Living provides support and services to children with special needs and adults with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder.

In April of 2017, the Langley Association for Community Living and the Langley Child Development Centre merged services under the name Inclusion Langley Society.

More photos online here.

READ ALSO: Langley-based Infant Mental Health team launch awareness campaign aimed at parents’ phone addiction

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Daxton McDonald catches a ride with dad Patrick. Black Press photo
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At just five days old, Elijah Milligan, with mom Katie, was the youngest kid at the event. Black Press photo
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Sisters Brooklynn, 7, and Mackenzie, 5, showed up in coordinated outfits.
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Siblings Karra and Eli Pink get their picture taken with the Jolly Old Elf at the Breakfast With Santa fundraiser for Langley Child Development Services. Black Press
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Keith Drummond provided a ride on a 35-year-old trackless train at Breakfast With Santa. Black Press Photo