Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today encouraged all New Yorkers who can to answer a "Dear Santa" letter from a child from a family in need. Yesterday, the Mayor visited the Queens Center Mall in Elmhurst, purchasing gifts to answer a "Dear Santa" letter from a seven-year old boy and a three-year old girl from a family in Washington Heights.

"These are very tough times for so many families," said Mayor Bloomberg.  "Making a child's 'Dear Santa' wish come true is great way to help families that are not as fortunate this holiday season.  If you can help, please answer a letter or donate to a 'Dear Santa' organization and help make a child's holiday dreams a reality."

Approximately 350 "Dear Santa" letters have arrived at City Hall this year.  Every December, the Mayor's Volunteer Center of New York City distributes "Dear Santa" letters sent to the City Hall to City Hall employees and others who volunteer to answer them. 

To participate in a "Dear Santa" program, call 311 or visit www.operationsanta.com, the U.S. Postal Service's program to answer "Dear Santa" letters, for information on how to help answer a child's holiday wish.