The first time I was Santa was in 1997. I bought a Santa suit from a costume store that was going out of business and was Santa for a Rehab place. I’ve been doing Santa off-and-on since then. I’m a good Santa because I’m a colorful person. I have personality and am good with people. Even though they pay me a little something, I would be Santa for free. 

For Christmas, I would like a hot meal and the love of my life (at 60 years old and after working 37 years, I can buy what I want). If I, Santa, could give one gift to the world, I’d want to make sure everybody was fed. When I’m not being Santa, I’m a community activist in Richmond, CA. I pass out Blessing Bags to people who need some help. I even put stuff in for the dogs. I figure- the dogs gotta eat too.

—Timothy Walker aka Santa