NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — COVID-19 has changed how many people celebrate the holiday season, but an East Nashville neighbor wanted to make sure one tradition isn't forgotten.
Last week, Kate Blocher put up a drop box that says "Letters to Santa" on the utility pole outside of her East Nashville home. She said she worried the coronavirus would keep kids from seeing Santa Claus at malls or stores and didn't want the neighborhood kids to miss out on a holiday experience.
"I didn't know if malls and stores would have Santa, and I just didn't know how many parents would be comfortable going and standing in line with lots of people," Blocher said.
But the task doesn't end with the letters in the box.
"We will write a note to them, saying that Santa has gotten their letter and that we hope they have a great Christmas, and that they still can enjoy the spirit of Christmas despite not being able to go and sit on Santa's lap," Blocher said.
Shortly after the box went up, Blocher posted about it on Facebook, and neighbors rallied around the effort.
"I've had offers and donations from the people in the neighborhood to provide stamps or paper," Blocher said. "I think after the response on Facebook there were concerns that maybe I would be inundated with responses."
Now Blocher hopes the drop box can become a neighborhood tradition that continues well after the pandemic ends.
"I don't see why not," she said with a laugh.
