Toy Giveaway brings Christmas to Airmen

  • Published
  • By Sachel Seabrook
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  It began to look a lot like Christmas Dec. 2 as the Airman's Attic transformed into Santa's workshop.

Members of the First Sergeants Council and numerous volunteers became Santa's elves and helped organize more than 4,500 toys for the seventh annual toy distribution. As parents rummaged through piles of toys, puzzles, games and digital cameras to find the perfect gift inside, Santa made his way outside to spread Christmas cheer to those waiting in line. From lieutenants up to technical sergeants, Eglin Airmen had the opportunity to select up to five toys for each of their children.

"This is our way of giving back to our country and saying thanks for protecting our country," said Brenda Morrison, volunteer and originator of the Eglin toy giveaway. "This program is my heart and soul."

Last year, the same toy distribution at the Airman's Attic handed out toys to 380 children. During this year's event, 537 children received donated toys, an increase of more than 1,000 toys than last year.

"As a parent, you want to give your child the best Christmas," said Sara Burkes, a mother of three. "This program means Christmas for my kids."

This annual holiday event helps to lighten the financial burden for many parents who are financially strapped.

"Because of the economy, more people are in need this year," said Bob White, manager of the Airman Attic. "We know these families need the help and we have the toys to give away."

Although the line to enter the winter wonderland wrapped around the building, no family was turned away. Parents who walked in hoping to find the perfect gift for their children walked out carrying big bags of toys and even bigger smiles.

"The program went great," said Master Sgt. George Freeman, who spearheaded the event. "We served 277 families."

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

"Having been a military child, I was always taught to give," said Brenda McNeill, a second-year volunteer. "It means everything to me to know I helped make a child happy on Christmas."