For the 28th year, Santa Claus and his merry helpers rode the rails and distributed gifts to more than 1,400 deserving children on board the BNSF Santa Claus Express train as it traveled through Southern California this past weekend, with trips departing from San Bernardino, Fullerton and Barstow.

Children were selected for the free rides by a variety of organizations, including the United Way, Scottish Rite, Ronald McDonald House, Loma Linda Hospital and Giving Children Hope, to name a few. BNSF employees volunteered their time to host the children and help Santa Claus deliver presents and refreshments during each of the trips.

“At BNSF, we move millions of packages during the holiday season, but it’s a true privilege for our company and our employee volunteers to operate the Santa Claus Express for these honored guests,” says Donnie Stilwell, general manager of operations, California Division. “We all enjoy seeing the kids’ excitement as Santa and Mrs. Claus come through the trains with gifts and treats. Many of our employees have participated in this wonderful holiday tradition for more than 20 years.”

Local media coverage included the Victorville Daily Press.