A Visit from Santa at Boys & Girls Club Camp Simmons Dials Down the Summer Heat

By Jack Gibson

Recently, at the Boys and Girls Club of Greenwich’s Camp Simmons, a couple of big named guests made their way up Lake Ave to give a surprise visit to the young campers for their yearly ‘Christmas in July’ event.

Santa paid a visit to Camp Simmons on July 22, a scorcher! Photo: Jack Gibson

For lunch they were treated to food off the grill made by celebrity chef, First Selectman Fred Camillo. He gave a great speech about just how much the Boy and Girls club means to the town, and himself as he was a former camper in the shoes of every kid who looked on. He also encouraged the campers to continue enjoying themselves and appreciate these days as they are some of the best memories to make.

Following this, Greenwich Fire Chief Joseph McHugh came out to say a few more positive words to the campers before introducing the real surprise guest of the afternoon. It was then that a Greenwich fire engine turned the corner carrying none other than Santa Claus only five months early.

He stepped off first in order to toss candy canes to the excited campers before turning around to grab the hose and cool everyone off on what was an awfully hot day, especially for the North
Pole native.

“It’s a great way to partner with the community, especially the first responders and then the kids
of course get to get soaked with the big hose,” said Camp Director Don Palmer.

More information on the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich including membership is available online.

Sculptures at the entrance to Camp Simmons are a good signal of the fun to be had. Photo: Jack Gibson
Greenwich Fire Dept firefighters got the fun started at Camp Simmons. July 22, 2022 Photo: Jack Gibson
Santa arrived on a Greenwich Fire truck and delighted capers by springing them from the fire hoses. July 22, 2022 Photo: Jack Gibson
Greenwich First Selectman Fred Camillo was the “Celebrity Chef” at Camp Simmons, grilling hot dogs and hamburgers after Santa’s visit. Photo: Jack
Staff gathered for a group photo after Santa sprayed all the campers with the fire hoses. July 22, 2022 Photo: Jack Gibson