Deschutes County foster children and their foster families were hosted by Pine Tavern and Assistance League® of Bend at their 32nd Annual Breakfast with Santa on December 7, 2025. Bringing neighbors together, the event featured a delicious buffet, caroling, cookie decorating, and face painting added to the festivities. Children had the chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, have their photos taken, and choose a stuffed animal or Lego as a keepsake of this special day.

Assistance League of Bend and Pine Tavern once again partnered to serve a complimentary breakfast to local foster families. “This is one of the very few programs in Central Oregon that treats the whole foster family, not just the foster child,” said Dana Barron, event organizer. “It is a heartwarming experience to see the joy on the children’s faces when they meet Santa.”

Reservations filled quickly and the event sold out again this year. The general public can participate after the foster family reservations are filled and proceeds from the breakfast help fund the event for the foster families. 

This event has become a much-anticipated and beloved tradition in Bend, with some families returning year after year—like the Hopp family, who have taken part for over 30 years.