The Denver Santa Claus Shop, Inc.

Background Statement

Ninety-Two years ago, The Denver Santa Claus Shop was created -and today, it's still going strong.

The unique and enduring mission of The Denver Santa Claus Shop is credited to its founders, a society of women intent on providing toys to children in need at Christmas while maintaining the dignity of the families receiving the aid. Their novel approach to charitable giving replaced the prepackaged "bundles" of miscellaneous household goods, clothing, and toys previously delivered to families in their homes.

Founder Miriam "Minnie" Adams mused, "The biggest struggle is this: To persuade people to give up their pride and pleasure in giving directly to a family and to make them realize the families prefer to come to The Shop and shop."

Working with many social service agencies - much like we do today - the first Shops collected food, clothing, and toys and operated like a giant store. A system of paper gift certificates worth $1 apiece was utilized, and each paper was punched as the desired gifts were selected.

Believed to be the oldest continuously running shop of its kind in the country, The Denver Santa Claus Shop owes its ongoing success to the thousands of volunteers, donors and agencies collaborating to create the massive store - now devoted exclusively to the collection and distribution of toys.

Throughout the rich history of The Denver Santa Claus Shop, whether the Great Depression, World War II, or the chaotic protests of the 1960s - The Shop has prevailed in bringing the simple pleasure of joy - through the gift of a toy - for every needy girl and boy.