WATCH: UES Kids Fighting Cancer Surprised By Hoisted-Up Santa

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY — For the first time in recent memory, pediatric cancer patients at the Ronald McDonald House were unable to visit Santa Claus in-person this year, depriving the kids of what is normally a year-end highlight.

Instead, the House found a way to bring Santa safely to the children — Thursday night, he was hoisted by an FDNY firetruck up to the House's windows in what organizers called a "Miracle on 73rd Street."

The event gave kids the chance to get a close-up view of Santa through the House's windows, as he waved hello from the basket while Christmas songs played from the street. Police officers and firefighters also delivered presents to the building's lobby.

The Ronald McDonald House, which provides temporary housing and support for pediatric cancer patients and their families, said the event helped brighten the holidays for the families it serves, who are dealing with the twin threats of cancer and the ongoing pandemic.

The House serves families from around the city and across the U.S. During the pandemic, it has also delivered wellness packages to the city's hospitals, run online support groups and more.