Early Christmas toys help Eglin parents

  • Published
  • By Randy Gon
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Santa's traditional approach altered slightly, landing him straight into the attic and providing families in need of help a better holiday at the 9th annual toy distribution here, Nov. 29.

More than 6,000 toys, collected by donations made throughout the year to the Airman's Attic, were distributed to 283 families. Parents and service members, up to the grade of E-6, waited in line as early as 11 p.m. the night before.

"This is giving my children a Christmas. I have a 21-month-old and a five-week-old," said Rebecca Coates. Coates said she had to set money aside for her daughter's medical expenses, so this will help her family with the holidays.

Donations increased 50 percent from last year and more than 600 children will find presents under their tree.

Approximately 80 volunteers from First Sergeant Council, Army Explosive Ordinance Disposal detachment, Airman's Attic and even the Niceville High School baseball team helped get the toys to those in need.

"Our coach came up to us one day after practice and told us about it," said Josh Smith, a Niceville High School's baseball player. "I just thought it would be pretty cool to help out."

After the distribution, Bob White, an Airman's Attic volunteer veteran, starts over by collecting any toys left over from the local Toys-For-Tots benefit and begins the year-long collection process again for next year's families in need.

The Airman's Attic can be reached at 882-3616, Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.