The Santa bus tradition in Grain Valley, Missouri, is facing changes this holiday season as police escorts will look different due to a lack of city support. Chuck Johnston, who has been driving the festive Santa bus for nearly 30 years, was informed that the Volunteers in Police Service would not be allowed to use city cars and marked safety equipment for the escorts. The lack of support is concerning to Johnston as he believes it is essential for the safety of the children who participate in the tradition.
Despite the setback, Johnston has received an outpouring of support from community members who are willing to volunteer and help with safety escorts for this year’s Santa bus drives. He is grateful for the offers of assistance but remains frustrated with the lack of communication from the city regarding the changes.
As the first Santa bus drive of the season approaches, Johnston is hopeful that the tradition will still bring joy to families in Grain Valley, even with the changes in police escorts.
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Photo credit fox4kc.com
