Children in Hopkinton, for the first time ever, were able to give Santa Claus their wish list while eating breakfast at Columbia Hall.

On Saturday, Dec. 9, the Hopkinton Recreation Department hosted “Breakfast with Santa,” a charitable event aimed at providing local children a chance to meet Santa while simultaneously benefiting the less fortunate.

“We weren’t sure what to expect because this is the first time we’ve done it, but we’re really happy with the turnout and excited to help out with a great cause,” said Hopkinton Recreation Director Robert Mattes.

Proceeds from the event went toward the “Santa Fund,” a charity benefiting Hopkinton families without money for gifts.

Marilyn CerielloBresaw, Hopkinton’s director of human services, who runs the program, said she was surprised when Mattes offered to coordinate the event.

“I think it’s great for him to do this, so it’s a first and I’m hoping it’s successful because it has been a lot of fun,” said Ceriello- Bresaw.

“It’s certainly going to be help because we have at least 125 children so far and we’ve been getting a lot of last-minute ones, too. So this should be able to help us shop last minute.”

Mattes and seven volunteers made and served breakfast, and offered a treat to children who wanted to speak with Santa without having to wait in long lines at the mall.

The event went off without a hitch, said Mattes.

“It’s gone really smooth,” he said. “We have enough people helping out and we’re not stepping all over people. People seem to be flowing in at a very steady pace, so we’ve been able to stay on top of the food. And Santa has been doing a great job.”

Many of those who brought children expressed appreciation for the holiday-oriented event.

“Obviously, all the kids like to come and see Santa and it’s wonderful for the parents to be able to come into the community where the kids can see the other kids from school and get together and play,” said parent Marcy Ort.

“It’s nice for us as parents, too, because we don’t see each other but at a couple of times a year at school functions. To have it benefit a good cause is just an added bonus,” she said.

Parents should have the same opportunity next December.

“We don’t need a ton of people, which is great and I think the response has been good enough that we’ll do it again next year,” said Mattes.