Photo Provided Santa Claus gives 6-year-old Rilynn Yeager of Toronto some goodies after hearing her Christmas wishes. Santa came to town to the delight of children and adults alike at a sensory-friendly holiday event at Jeffco Center in Steubenville on Dec. 14.

STEUBENVILLE — Santa Claus made an early trek to the area and delighted children and adults during a sensory-friendly holiday event at the Jeffco Center.

Attendees braved the harsh cold and snow to participate in the inclusive festivities on Dec. 14. Everyone enjoyed cookie decorating, crafts, hot cocoa, and cookies, as well as taking photos with Jolly Old St. Nick himself. The event was sponsored by Special Connections, a collaboration between the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the Special Needs Parents of the Ohio Valley Support Group on Facebook, and Crossroads Christian Church.

The initiative aims to promote inclusivity and raise awareness of individuals with developmental disabilities. Officials said the goal of the fourth-annual event was to provide a comfortable space for people of all ages and abilities to celebrate the season together.

“It’s sensory-friendly and not too much for those who may get overstimulated,” said Mindy Aleksiejczyk, vice president of the JCBDD board, founder of the Special Needs Parents Support Group of the Ohio Valley Facebook page, and a member of Special Connections.

“They can come and make memories,” added Cookie West, JCBDD community and public relations specialist and member of Special Connections. “They aren’t just in the moment; they are alive in the feeling, and it’s wonderful to see them smile and hear their laughter.”

Both adults and children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities were on hand and family members agreed that the activity was a wonderful way to participate in the yuletide commemoration.

“It gives us a chance to have a good time and enjoy the season in an informal setting,” said Bobbi Liddick of Toronto, who was attending with her daughter. “There are no expectations except to have a good time and she loves to get to see Santa Claus.”

“We’ve been coming here since it started and we love it,” added Natalie Smith of Steubenville, who joined her two children. “We feel like they are in an environment where they can be themselves. It’s a fun atmosphere, too.”