Santa's Attic Published Dec. 11, 2009 By Rhonda Griffin 43rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Many holiday activities are designed for children, but Pope offers one that helps little ones to do a little something for Mom and Dad. Santa's Attic, sponsored by the Airman and Family Readiness Center, is a Christmas party for children that is complete with cookies and a visit with Santa, but they also get to pick out a special gift - for their parents. The event, which is open to children of Pope assigned active duty members and the students of Pope Elementary School from ages 3 to 11, is a great way for the whole family to enjoy something special for the holiday season. A visit to Santa's Attic is free for E-5 and below, with a cost of $5 per child for all others. Army members whose children attend school at Pope are also invited to attend. "We usually have at least 35 volunteers and we go all out," said Denni Renteria, Pope's volunteer program manager. Volunteers are still needed for this year's event, but the job seems like anything but work. The helpers get to dress up in holiday costumes and join in the fun right along with the children. The Pope Spouses' Association also lends a hand - or two - by baking cookies for the guests to enjoy during their visit to Santa's Attic. The children can make Christmas cards and visit with Santa, and of course they will visit the top secret gift room where parents aren't allowed. In the room, they will find gifts that are already wrapped, and get to choose one for each parent. Santa and his helpers will be in his attic Tuesday, ready for a visit from his special guests. Parents are encouraged to bring a camera to get lots of pictures of their children with Santa. "This event takes a lot of planning, but it's so much fun," Mrs. Renteria said. "Without our volunteers, this would not happen."