This was the beginning of the 100 Deputies 100 Kids program. The 2000 Christmas party, held December 14, was attended by approximately 250 children and 95 Deputies. The children are selected through Volusia County schools, churches and the Sheriff's district offices based on financial need. Invited guests are picked up at home, the evening of the party, by a uniformed Deputy Sheriff and chauffeured to the Volusia County fairgrounds.
Deputies attending the party do so as volunteers donating their off-duty time to the program.
Everyone is fed dinner, then the real excitement begins. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive to the sound of festive holiday music and cheering children. Each child is called up to meet Santa and receive three wrapped presents. The children also received a stocking filled with crayons, pencils, rulers, candy and assorted small toys. Each family was provided a gift certificated for food from local grocery stores.