American Legion project brings joy

Santa Claus was on hand last week to hand out toys to more than 400 children at the annual American Legion Post 52 Kids Day program.

More than 400 students from elementary schools in Hartselle and surrounding areas got a jump on the Christmas holiday Dec. 10 as participants at the 64th annual Hartselle Kids Day, a humanitarian project sponsored by John F. Thompson American Legion Post 52.
The event was staged at Sparkman Civic Center and featured an early appearance by Santa Claus. Serving as his helpers were Legionnaires, Unit 52 auxiliary members and other volunteers.
Each child  representing kindergarten through fourth grade,  received an age-appropriate, wrapped gift from Santa, after his or her name was called out so that everyone could hear.  In addition, candy canes were distributed by Santa helper  Harley Bridges and bags of fruit and candy were distributed to the students as they left the auditorium on the way to their buses.
Schools participating were Hartselle’s F.E. Burleson, Crestline and Barkley Bridge, Danville-Neel, Falkville and Sparkman.
“The kids are so excited,” said Rona Blevins, counselor at Danville-Neel Elementary School. “Our little ones didn’t know what to expect and you could see their faces light up when they walked through the door and saw Santa and all of the gifts. We appreciate everything the Legionnaires do to give us Kids Day year after year.”
“I’m glad we’re able to do it,” said Jerry Cleek, project chairman.  “We’ll start next week raising funds for next year’s project. It makes our Christmas when we see the excitement and smiles on the faces of the kids.”
“Seeing the kids so excited about getting their gifts pulls at my heart strings,” said Peggy Chapman, a volunteer.  “This is a wonderful project and it makes a bright day for those of us who help.”
Post Commander Don Collum thanked everyone who contributed to the project. As an example of a cheerful giver, he singled out Tony’s Country Diner
“They (Tony’s) gave us a meal to auction off each week on Bingo night. It wasn’t a big donation but it made a big difference. We’re always looking for donations like that because we want to keep Kids Day going as long as possible.”
Others who volunteered as gift wrappers and Kids Day helpers were: Gail Jones, Jean Lesher, Shawn Carpenter, Joyce Breeding, Dot Hudgins, Elizabeth Alexander, William Lesher, Jessica Taylor,  Greg Jones, Janice Harvel, Truman and Opal Bridges and Travis Palmer.