Megan Udinski, FISM News

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As the holidays approach, consumers have now come to expect shortages of a multitude of items due to pandemic-related issues, but what may come as a surprise to many is that there are vacancies at “Santa’s Villages” across the country as well.

According to hiresanta.com, there are not enough Santas to fill all the needs this Christmas season. The website reports that there is a 121% increase in Santa-related requests this year when compared to the past two years. Comparatively there are 10% fewer Santas working this year due to the pandemic, creating a not-so-merry Christmas for several businesses who rely on a showing from the “big man.”

Traditionally, Santas tend to have a higher BMI and are older in age, especially those who look like the traditional renderings of Santa Claus. These comorbidities in conjunction with the pandemic have resulted in many Santas choosing to take a break this year or retire from the career altogether, while others have unfortunately passed away. 

The “National Santa” as representative for the Toys for Tots foundation, Tim Connaghan, shared with the Washington Post that in a personal survey he did of his coworkers, 18% of fellow Clauses say they are taking off this year. On a personal note, he commented, “I’ve had all my shots and all my vaccinations, and I watch myself very closely. But I want to remain cautious, you know, and I’m also encouraging other Santas to do the same.” 

The hesitancy of Santas to return this year is not the only factor in the shortage of jolly Old Saint Nick. The supply chain shortages have also backed up the availability of the iconic red suit used to represent Santa Claus. 

The company Costumes for Santa explained, “There’s a lot of needed items that are still on the sea in containers. Our wholesalers have not gotten their product from China … Stuff that should have come in in August is coming in now.” A fellow Santa costume shop owner resorted to selling his own personal costume as many Clauses are desperate for the outfit. 

Many companies who provide meet-and-greet opportunities with Santa suggest that you make reservations now for your child to meet Santa as there is limited availability and not all children will get to see Santa this year. For those who are lucky enough to grab a spot with the man in the red suit, COVID-19 protocols will likely still be taking place. At many places children must sit 6 feet from Santa or next to him but not on his knee. Additionally most children over two will be required to wear a mask. 

Christmas will not necessarily be as “normal” this year as many had hoped, and the Santa shortage will certainly add to the disparity. But praise God that Santa and gifts are not our source of hope during this season. We are reminded, particularly this time of year, that Jesus Christ is God’s promise and He is always present. The baby in the manger, Emmanuel, is “God with us” and there is never a shortage of His presence.