The Valley Mall will welcome Santa Cares on Sunday, Dec. 8 allowing children with special needs to be welcomed into a photo environment designed to support their sensory, physical and developmental needs.

The event is a result of a joint partnership between AbilityPath.org, a national online resource hub and special needs community and The Noerr Programs, a leading marketing and digital imaging company providing the Santa Photo Experience at malls nationwide.

“Every family of children with special needs has probably had at least one mall photo moment that was less than ideal. A traditionally heartwarming experience can become overwhelming and as a result, many special needs families opt not to partake in this tradition,” said Sheryl Young, CEO of AbilityPath.org. “With the help of Valley Mall, we are changing that! We have worked together to lessen potential triggers, by having the event occur during private mall hours and making other slight adjustments that provide a calmer sensory-friendly environment for all children to enjoy.”

“We are thrilled at the opportunity to host this incredible event,” said Allie Stewart, General Manager at Valley Mall. “Santa Cares brings joy to children with specials needs in our community, and it is truly an honor to be involved in this program.”

The event kicks off at 9 a.m. and continues until 11 a.m. when the mall opens to the general public. Families are encouraged to RSVP prior to the event by calling Valley Mall Guest Services at 509-469-9308.

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