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Pay It Forward: Mrs. Claus’ Cause

The on-going effort to collect toys for the “Toys for Tots” program depends on many volunteers who merely want to help others. Among those volunteer...

The on-going effort to collect toys for the "Toys for Tots" program depends on many volunteers who merely want to help others.

Among those volunteers is a Quad City woman known to some as Mrs. Claus.

Yes, we've heard enough about Santa Claus.  This story is about Mrs. Claus.

Mrs. Claus is Jan Tappa and today we've decided to give her some cash because she hasn't been naughty.

"I'm Paying it Forward to you, $300 from Ascentra Credit Union and News 8," announces Jan's friend of 30-years, Cindy Bennett.

Cindy nominated Jan for the cash through News 8's on-going "Pay It Forward" campaign.

And Jan is the perfect recipient.

"She's always been a giving person," says Cindy, known as Cyd by friends.

"She's always been a loving person, that's who she is."

On this day, she's helping with the Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots campaign.

But the holiday season starts even sooner for Jan.

You may have seen her before... at the East Moline Lighted Parade.  Or you may know her from her Christmas visit with Davenport firefighters at Genesis Medical Center's pediatrics unit.

"She goes to the hospital every year and spreads joy and cheer to everybody," says Cindy.

"The parents know that we're coming and it's so overwhelming," says Mrs. Claus.

"I mean you have a sick baby in the hospital and how sad at Christmastime."

You may also know Jan from the family business: Tappa's Steak House in Davenport where she visits with every customer to make sure they feel at home.

"She's been there for everybody," says Cyd.

"Whether you needed a hug, a kiss, or even a prayer.  She's always there."

But today Mrs. Claus is here, helping collect toys for families she'll never meet.   She knows it's part of her effort to help her fellow man.

"What a blessing that I get to be the eyes and ears for Him and hear people's needs and be able to go out and help those who need help," says Jan.

Cyd was able to Pay It Forward to Mrs. Claus thanks to $300 from Ascentra Credit Union.  You can nominate people who are giving to the community by clicking here.

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