There isn't a train itself running for KCS this year, but they're making up for it by holding a fundraiser with the Salvation Army.
https://trn.trains.com/news/news-wire/2 ... fundraiser
https://trn.trains.com/news/news-wire/2 ... fundraiser
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City Southern will not operate its Holiday Express train this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the program with a fundraising campaign to benefit the Salvation Army in 20 communities along its rail network.
“While it is not safe to gather for free visits with Santa Claus and tours of the Holiday Express train this year,” KCS CEO Patrick J. Ottensmeyer said in a press release, “the need for the charitable component of this program is greater than ever.”
The railroad said communities that will receive the funds raised for The Salvation Army include Kansas City, Joplin, and Mexico, Mo.; Beaumont, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Houston, Laredo, and Port Arthur, Texas; Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport, and Westlake, La.; Gulfport, Jackson, and Vicksburg, Miss.; Decatur, Ark.; East St. Louis, Ill;, Pittsburg, Kan.; and Heavener, Okla.
Those interested in making a tax-deductible contribution to the campaign may do so here.
In 19 years, the Holiday Express has raised over $2.1 million for charity. The program began from the Santa Train, which ran on a portion of the KCS network in 1997, and began featuring a six-car decorated train in 2001 as it addressed the needs of children without essential items like coats, hats, and gloves.
"Look down, step over, and watch the gap!" - Dr. John Clarke, The Gap Rap (2010)
