“Fireman Santa” saved Christmas for the pediatric patients at New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital this year.
Firefighters from Ladder Company 122, Engine Company 220 and Tower Ladder Company 131 visited the hospital’s pediatrics unit bearing gifts and holiday cheer on Wednesday, December 21.
“We wanted to make sure even if some patients won’t be home in time for Christmas, they can still get the holiday experience while in the hospital,” said Gaby Marden, director of the child life program at NYPBMH.
“Fireman Santa,” played by Paul Ribeiro, a firefighter from Engine 220, Ladder 122, surprised the children at the pediatrics unit via a tower ladder through a window. Both inpatient and outpatient children received gifts, donated by the community, from Santa and his squad.
Marden said it was a wonderful treat for the kids. “Thanks to our local firefighters from Ladder Company 122, Engine Company 220 and Tower Ladder 131 and the generous folks who donated gifts, Brooklyn Methodist was able to provide that.”
The holiday ritual has been going on for at least three decades and is part of the hospital’s tradition.
NYPBMH is located in Park Slope at 506 Sixth Street.
Bishop’s Dinner for Scouting is ‘all about the kids’ 
Adelphi Academy of Brooklyn Celebrates Historic 161st Academic Year