LITTLE VALLEY - The Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Office is having a successful Santa Sheriff Program. In its fifth year, Santa Sheriff Program Director Deputy Brian Keis and Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb said the 2009 season surpassed pre-season expectations and the program was able to funding was raised for 17 families.

"We would like to send a special thank you out to the staff and students of the Salamanca high and middle schools, as well as, the volunteers from Cattaraugus Community Action," Keis said. "It is their dedication and hard work which made this years program such a success. We look forward to working with everyone again during the next giving season, as well as, adding other schools to assist our program to reach even more families in 2010."

The two also wanted to thank the businesses and residents from around the county who made financial contributions.

In March of 2010, fundraising efforts will begin again with a goal to reach 20 families. Individuals interested in donating to this project may contact Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb at 938-9191, Programs Director Deputy Brian Keis at 938-9191, or may send contributions by check directly to the Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Office, 301 Court Street, Little Valley 14775 Attn: Santa Sheriff's. Please write "Santa Sheriff's" on the memo line.