According to HireSanta's Mitch Allen, malls and shopping centers across the nation are facing a Santa shortage this Christmas season. Allen says there are over 2,000 full-season Santa, Mrs. Claus and elf jobs still available. A Santa at the Willowbrook Mall in New Jersey says many of his fellow Kris Kringles are staying away due to fears of catching COVID. Two years ago, many Santas were required to wear plastic face shields and were separated from kids by plexiglass screens.