The Thompson family—John, Mary and young Tommy—are traveling west by train from Ohio, looking for a fresh start. Aunt Liz graciously opens her home to them upon their arrival, and a new life for the family begins.

The pain of losing their home and the family farm in Ohio means different things to each of them and they wrestle with the changes in their own way.

John’s faith is tested as he finds himself struggling to provide basic needs for his family. He feels like a failure in their eyes, and most of all in his own. Farming is all he knows and starting over is difficult. Tommy and his mother are determined to embrace their new life and are thrilled when Aunt Liz surprises Tommy with his very own horse to care for.

Time marches on and the Christmas season soon approaches. Tommy is worried Santa won’t be able to visit him without the plentiful snow he left behind in Ohio, and he and his father find themselves at odds. Mr. Thompson knows money is tight and does his best to warn Tommy to be realistic about Christmas morning. He knows there will be little to no gifts.

However, the family finds unexpected joy and delight when a mysterious stagecoach arrives in the dark hours of Christmas Eve. Once again the family discovers the simple joy of love, hope and faith in the most difficult of circumstances.

“Stagecoach Santa” is a heartwarming and tender film sure to delight, and we are happy to approve it for viewers of all ages.