There was no shortage of smiles or cheers as several Houston area school children got a surprise visit from Santa and bags full of toys this week. It is part of METRO's annual Adopt-a-School program. Each year, operators, mechanics and other staff who work at the Authority's bus operating facilities choose a school or senior community center to sponsor. Along with riding a METRO-style "sleigh" through the bus wash, the children from Black and Best elementary schools were treated to lunches, pictures with Santa and gifts. "This is something we look forward to the entire year. Our staff starts in January fundraising and planning each event," said Robert Augustine, METRO's Senior Director of Transportation. The holiday cheer was also spread at the Johnson & Johnson and Sheltering Arms senior centers where dozens of seniors welcomed visits and gifts from METRO staff. Augustine and other staff started the program nearly a decade ago to strengthen relationships in communities METRO serves.