'Green Santa' Visits Mendham Borough

The spirit of the holidays filled the Garabrant Center in Mendham Borough on Saturday, Dec. 8 when a group of children were treated to festive arts and crafts, bagels, fruit and a visit from the jolly man in the red suit himself.

Santa's big arrival came in white golf cart, which he said was show care for the Garden State's environment.

"I am a Green Santa," he said.

The event was organized by the Neighbors and Newcomers of Mendham, a social organization which seeks to develop friendships among residents and to acquaint them with the community. Membership is open to all residents of Mendham Borough & Mendham Township, New Jersey.

Originally organized in 1967 as the Welcome Wagon Club and reorganized as the Newcomers and Neighbors of the Mendhams in 2002

Member Karen Innes-Mulhall said that Santa's arrival came at the perfect time for the children in attendance.

"He was resplendent with a long flowing white beard and super fluffy red robes," Innes-Mulhall said. "He was every bit our Santa Clause."

Innes-Mulhall said Santa listened to the wishes of all the children, allowing each to whisper one special wish for Christmas.

"What a wonderful start to the Holiday Season," Innes-Mulhall said. "So many happy, smiling children."

Instead of receiving a gift from Santa, every child brought a gift with them to donate to local families in need.

Neighbors and Newcomers of Mendham offer several regularly scheduled club activities, such as a Children's Playgroup, Book Group and Bunco Group; and special monthly programs, such as Ladies' Night Out, Santa's Breakfast and Family Fun Night, where new & existing members can come together to get to know one another. For more information visit their website.