Holiday cheer takes flight in Michigan

Santa’s helpers make Christmas brighter for youth across the state

Dec. 18, 2025

High above Michigan, holiday spirit recently took flight. On the first weekend of December, pilots transformed their planes and helicopters into Santa’s sleighs to help deliver Christmas spirit.

More than 750 volunteers wrapped, sorted and packed nearly 19,000 donated Christmas gifts for Operation Good Cheer this year—a program that’s been brightening the lives of youth in Michigan for 55 years.

Then, 245 pilots stepped up, ready to fly those gifts to children and young adults in foster care, residential facilities and group homes. Thanks to their efforts, 6,000 youth experienced the magic of the season.

For many volunteers, the decision to help is a personal one.

“It’s a phenomenal charity, and what better way for me to help give back then through aviation,” said Paul Grech, Chief Rotary Pilot at Enbridge. “Flying choppers has been my passion for 25 years.”

Grech and the Enbridge aviation department teamed up the Bay area pipeline maintenance team at Enbridge to sponsor six children, buying and donating Christmas gifts on the children’s wish list.

Enbridge loaded a helicopter in Pontiac, Oakland County, and flew to Owosso, Shiawassee County, to deliver presents where they were needed.

 

“Christmas is a special season for me. I have wonderful Christmas memories as a child, and this day was a great chance to help ensure that less fortunate children get a taste of the joys of Christmas.”

—Paul Grech, Enbridge Chief Rotary Pilot

“We fly for aerial inspections along our pipeline system in Michigan,” said Grech. “We are part of the community. Helping Santa by delivering these presents is about spreading joy and helping others.”

Sitting next to Grech in the cockpit was Kirstie Staelens, senior community advisor for Enbridge. Staelens has been supporting Operation Good Cheer since 2018.

“I’ve volunteered for years, but this is my first time to fly and deliver gifts, so this journey is very special,” said Staelens.

“This program holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, my family utilized similar services, and without them, I might not have had presents under the tree. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact we can have and I’m proud to be at a company that supports this incredible effort,” she added.

Enbridge is one of 33 organizations that supported Operation Good Cheer with transportation services. Presents were delivered to 34 airports and 28 truck destinations in Michigan. Each year, Enbridge supports several seasonal events, including Operation Good Cheer and the Marshall Christmas Parade.

Before they closed the door to the chopper, Grech said, “This is a real joy. A joy to make others smile and know we care about them.” It was reported that all flights made their journeys safely and delivered their holiday cargo—just like Santa.