2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26108847D

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 88

Offered March 3, 2026

Commending the CSX Santa Train.

—————

Patron—Pillion

—————

WHEREAS, for 83 years, the CSX Santa Train has been one of the nation's most cherished holiday traditions, bringing joy and hope to the heart of Appalachia; and

WHEREAS, since 1943, the CSX Santa Train has made a 110-mile journey through Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee, with Santa and his elves tossing toys, handing out backpacks filled with supplies, and spreading Christmas cheer to children and their families; and

WHEREAS, in 2025, the CSX Santa Train provided more than 15,000 toys, 6,000 train safety books, and 5,000 bags with cold-weather gear to the hundreds of individuals who were gathered at 15 locations along its route, which spanned from Shelby, Kentucky, to Kingsport, Tennessee, including stops in the Southwest Virginia communities of Toms Bottom, Haysi, Clinchco, Fremont, Dante, St. Paul, Dungannon, Fort Blackmore, Kermit, and Waycross; and

WHEREAS, the CSX Santa Train is made possible through the hard work of devoted volunteers and CSX employees who spend weeks packing all the backpacks with toys, as well as the generosity of sponsors and community partners, including Appalachian Power, Food City, and the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce; and

WHEREAS, for more than eight decades, the CSX Santa Train has brought joy, hope, and Christmas magic to children who might not otherwise receive any gifts for the holiday; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That the CSX Santa Train hereby be commended for its compassionate service to the children of the Southwest Virginia region; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to CSX as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration for the profound cultural impact and importance of the CSX Santa Train to Southwest Virginia and best wishes in the years to come as the organization continues to serve future generations of children and families through this beloved tradition.