Tis the season for giving, and the Eatonton Fire Department (EFD) is getting into the Christmas spirit through its 16th annual Fireman Santa’s Sleigh campaign for kids and families living within city limits.
Officially, Eatonton’s city boundary extends in a 2.5-mile radius surrounding the historic downtown courthouse.
“The Fireman Santa’s Sleigh program started with about 50 kids in 2009, but last year we delivered new toys and clothing to more than 200 deserving children, right here in Eatonton,” EFD Chief Jamey Williamson said.
Williamson said new, unwrapped toys and clothing can be dropped off until Dec. 10 at the EFD station (214 W. Marion St., Eatonton, 31024), with monetary donations also accepted at the same address, whether in person or through the mail.
“We’ve found the people of Eatonton and Putnam County to be very generous, and we’ve been able to give kids some great presents each year, including bikes, so any amount is welcome, encouraged, and greatly appreciated,” Williamson said. “I think it’s also important to mention we do all our shopping right here in Eatonton, just to support our local stores and retailers who also give a lot back to the community each year.”
Applications for Fireman Santa’s Sleigh assistance are available at the above address, and interested Eatonton-based parents or guardians are encouraged to visit the fire station as soon as possible.
All applications must be returned to EFD by Nov. 26, with gift pick-up to be scheduled by appointment on Dec. 20 this year.
Donated toys for gift-giving should be dropped off at the fire station by Dec. 10.
The application also provides space to personalize gift requests for all children from infants to age 13 living at home with them.
It asks for each child’s name, age, gender, and their three “most wanted” Christmas presents (excluding electronics such as computers, TVs, game consoles, or cellphones).
Bicycles remain as a gift option, however, not for anyone who received one from Fireman Santa’s Sleigh the previous year, Williamson said.
“We look forward to this all year, and we’re really hoping to set new Fireman Santa records again for both donations received and free gifts handed out,” Williamson said. “Each year I’m just amazed at the generosity of the people who live here in Eatonton and Putnam County,” he added. “This is a very caring community, so I’m pretty confident this year’s Fireman Santa’s Sleigh will deliver a record number of toys and gifts to deserving kids and their families.”