National Ledger - Secret Santa Hands Out $20K in Phoenix, Larry Stewart Tradition Continues

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By Jon Shanks Dec 23, 2007

Larry Stewart, Kansas City's original Secret Santa has some followers in the Southwest desert. Though Phoenix traditionally has mild temperatures and no snow for Christmas, they are visited by Santa Clause and at times a very secret Santa that is willing to part with a whole lot of one hundred dollar bills for the needy.

Secret Santa Hands Out $20K in Phoenix, Larry Stewart Tradition Continues

According to the Arizona Republic, nearly $20,000 was handed out this week in Phoenix anonymously. The paper reports that Phoenix is the first of five cities nationwide that will be visited this year. About $150,000 will be anonymously given away.

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"The person who gets it gets some sort of connection," said Santa, who wants to be known only as a Kansas City businessman. "It's not just about the money. It's the act. Somebody cares. For them, it gives them hope." Secret Santa added, "This Secret Santa stuff is all about love, and it's unconditional. This is something that is priceless, and it's irreplaceable."

It's part of a holiday tradition that began 28 years ago when Larry Stewart, a Kansas City businessman, started handing out $100 bills after he had made his first million. Stewart died earlier this year, but his legacy continues.

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