The small town of Hauser — official population 668 — has once again chipped in to help a cancer-stricken child.

This time the recipient was a young girl battling for her life.

More than 1,700 people enjoyed the 34th annual Breakfast with Santa last weekend at the volunteer fire station on the south side of Hauser Lake.

Proceeds from the breakfast, estimated by organizers at more than $15,000, went to benefit Ellena, an 8-year-old Rathdrum girl fighting cancer.

The annual ritual is held in remembrance of Shalena, the daughter of Hauser Lake Capt. Gary Mobbs. Shalena died from cancer in 1985. In remembrance, her father has held the breakfast ever since, raising tens of thousands for local children afflicted with cancer.

“We know that many of the families we support are still doing well,” Mobbs said.

Mobbs said some of the cancer survivors benefiting from the annual breakfast have went on to live happy and healthy lives.

“They’ve become nurses, teachers and more,” he said. “We do this for the kids.”