Santa Claus is coming to town - by way of NJ Transit!
Each year for more than 40 years, the Railmen for Children create a winter wonderland for children with special needs.
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All aboard! Santa returns for the annual Railmen For Children ride, and this year will be the first time from Secaucus Junction Station.
Each year for more than 40 years, the Railmen for Children create a winter wonderland for children with special needs.
"I've seen a snowman, Rudolph, lots of Santa's helpers and a courtesy cart with some snacks. It'sgoing to be a great day for the children and for the families as a mother I'm excited to see the magic through her eyes," said Tashana Martin, a mom from Roselle.
More than 300 children and those with special needs have been invited to ride with St. Nick on an exciting journey along the Montclair-Boonton Line, complete with presents, treats, decorations and lots of holiday cheer. News 12 had a chance to sit down with the founder, who came up with the idea 47 years ago.
"ln 1983, myself and a group of other fellas that aren't here anymore decided to come up with an idea for the railroad who were never on the train before," said Joseph Fallon, of Railmen for Children.
"We went out with 125 children the first trip. This trip is now like 400-something kids," he said.
James Free, the president of Railmen for Children, said that the original conductors saved up spare change and spent their money on gifts for kids with special needs for the holidays. They say that it's all about the smile on the children's faces that makes the holidays bright.
