Rep. Juan “Santa Claus” Vargas Makes a Surprise Visit to Children at Head Start Center
National City, CA (December 19, 2013) –Today Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) dressed up as jolly old Saint Nicholas and visited nearly 100 children at the Neighborhood House Association Urban Village I Head Start Center. As part of a holiday tradition, Rep. Vargas selects a Head Start, surprises the children as Santa, reads them stories and poses for photos.
“Spending time with the children of Head Start is one of my favorite things to do during the holiday season,” said Rep. Vargas. “It is a heartwarming experience to see all of their faces light up as ‘Santa Claus’ walks through the door. These moments are a gift to me as much as they are a gift to the kids. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to volunteer my time to them each year.”
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Rep. Vargas, as Santa, with the children of the Urban Village I Head Start Center
“Neighborhood House Association is honored to have Congressman Juan Vargas visit our Urban Village I Head Start Center,” said Rudolph A. Johnson III, President and CEO of Neighborhood House Association. “The holidays can be a challenging time for families and the efforts of the Congressman are a great way to bring holiday cheer. NHA appreciates the support Congressman Juan Vargas has provided to NHA families over the years, and for his efforts in reaching out to our communities.”
Head Start is a federal program designed to prepare young children in low-income families to be successful in school by developing their cognitive, social, and emotional skills. The Neighborhood House Association in particular is the largest multi-purpose human services organization in San Diego County. It serves thousands of children and families every year through a variety of programs, including Head Start.
“I believe it is critical to invest in our nation’s youth through programs such as Head Start,” Rep. Vargas said. “Children from all backgrounds should have an equal opportunity for a successful future. Head Start programs help make that possible by allowing these children to develop important foundational skills at an early age.”
Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border. Vargas is currently serving his first term in Congress. He represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.