BY SARAH STEPHENS

ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS

Photos by Melissa Stiles and Sarah Stephens

Perhaps your presents are already open, and the cleanup of wrappings, boxes and bows is complete. Maybe you are gathering later this evening with family and friends. Wherever you are in the Christmas Day, we wish you a great one.

Somewhere out there today there are hundreds of children who woke to presents they probably were not expecting. It is because of the love and generosity that is alive and well in the Autauga and Elmore County area.

For the past few months fire departments, police departments, first responders of all kind, along with businesses and churches raised funds or had toy drives for children in our area.

Thank you!

These photos are from the Millbrook Police Department’s Operation Blue Santa. The Department wishes to thank all who took a part in this massive event raising funds, donating toys and so much more.

The Punishers LEMC Three Rivers Chapter and the American Legion Post 133 are major contributors, and so many businesses, churches, organizations and individuals dig deep into their pockets and their hearts ever year for this event.

Well over 60 new bicycles were distributed from the event alone to kids throughout the area. Add to that. clothes, toys, games, food and so much more to delight the bright eyes for Christmas. It is the kind of thing that warms you on the coldest of days.

Organizers gathered recently in the Municipal Courtroom in Millbrook to distribute the presents to parents. Area children were also invited to meet with Santa and take photos. There was milk and cookies for everyone as well.

Thank you to everyone who donated funds, toys or their time this season to make it a better one for a family, multiple families, neighbors, friends and strangers.