This December, Rainbow Alley’s annual family party was filled with holiday joy, smiling youth, fellow parents chatting, arts and crafts, and of course, Queer Santa.
It was truly heartwarming to see the youth’s faces light up when Queer Santa beckoned each of them forward to join her in front of the fireplace. A few attendees were overheard giggling after meeting her and remarking of how kind and warm she was.
Linda Warren has served as Queer Santa for 26 years now, becoming a beloved staple of The Center’s holiday celebrations. In her time, she has uplifted queer youth with love and presents, and Holigay has grown from a mere holiday celebration for all to an event that provides crucial support to the year-round work of Rainbow Alley.
After decades of sharing her love and acceptance, Linda determined the time has come to pass the hat to the next Queer Santa - Wendy Pobirk. Wendy is a dear friend of Linda's and an inspiring community advocate.
While a new era of Queer Santa begins, this special tradition will remain constant, bringing holigay cheer to LGBTQ+ youth and families every winter for another 25 years and beyond.