Santa Claus came to Newark a little early this year.

On Monday, Santa greeted patients at the Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and the Children's Hospital of New Jersey.

He waved to patients through the windows from atop a firetruck ladder, spreading holiday cheer to all.

"We had a really tough year this year, as everybody has. We've gone through a whole lot and it's really exciting to have this team, this outpouring of support from our community partners, coming out to make sure our kids have a great Christmas," said Darrell Terry Sr., of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.

Two Stanley Cup champions, along with members of the Newark Department of Public Safety, also joined in the celebration.