In a touching act of generosity that went viral back in 2018, school bus driver Curtis Jenkins from Dallas, Texas, transformed his bus into something truly special during the Christmas season. Instead of just driving his elementary school riders home each day, he quietly became a real-life Santa for every child on his route.
Credit: Dennis MacDonald / Shutterstock
Key Takeaways
- A Texas school bus driver saved his own money throughout the year to buy Christmas presents for every child on his bus route.
- He asked each student what they wanted for Christmas and made sure to get them that gift, creating unforgettable holiday memories for around 70 kids.
- The gifts ranged from small toys to bicycles and were handed out just before winter break, surprising and delighting the children.
- His act of kindness reminded the community of simple generosity and the joy of giving, inspiring others and touching many hearts.
For months leading up to the holidays, Jenkins asked each student on his bus what they hoped to receive for Christmas. He wrote down their wishes, saved money from his own paycheck, and with the support of his wife and a few community members, set about fulfilling those wishes. By the time winter break arrived, his bus was filled with around 70 wrapped gifts for all the children he cared for every school day.
On the last day before the holiday break, the students were greeted not just by their driver but by his thoughtful surprises. The presents included everything from puzzles and small toys to bicycles, items the kids had personally asked for. One young rider even asked Jenkins, “Are you Santa?” when he opened the bus door to reveal the gifts.
Jenkins’ motivation was simple yet powerful: he wanted to spread love and positivity and remind his students that they matter. “Kids these days need to see positivity,” he said in interviews with local news outlets. His kind act wasn’t about publicity or recognition, he later said he just wanted to see the joy on their faces.
The story quickly touched people far beyond Dallas. Photos of the bus overflowing with presents were shared on social media by Lake Highlands Elementary School, with many commenters saying Jenkins’ generosity “reminded us how much good there is in the world.” Teachers, parents, and community members were moved by the gesture, and the story became a feel-good highlight of the holiday season.
Many of the children, and even some adults who heard about the story later, said they would remember his kindness for years. The experience also inspired others in the community to think about how small acts of kindness can have a huge impact on someone’s life, especially during the holidays.
Curtis Jenkins’ gift-giving tradition showed that the true spirit of Christmas isn’t about how much money is spent but about making people feel seen, loved, and valued. His thoughtful and selfless choice to reach into his own heart, and wallet, set an unforgettable example for the children he drove every day and for people everywhere who heard his story.
If stories like this warm your heart and remind you of the beauty of kindness and community, you’ll love what we share at Simply Wholesome. Our site brings you inspiring reads, uplifting moments, and thoughtful content that celebrates compassion, everyday generosity, and meaningful living.
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