Christmas came early for several families across Augusta, thanks to a joint effort by Evans General Contractors, GF Casting Solutions, Aurubis Richmond, and the Augusta Fire Department.
In a heartwarming display of generosity, these community partners teamed up to donate nearly 1,000 toys to the fire department, which then took charge of delivering the toys to 37 selected families.
Starting on Dec. 13 and concluding on Friday, Dec. 20, fire department personnel made personal visits to these families in need to distribute toys.
‘It’s always a blessing to receive’
One such household belonged to Chazaun Hammond, whose younger siblings were on the receiving end of donated gifts.
“I’m grateful,” said Hammond. “I’m pretty sure the kids will wake up smiling [on Christmas Day]. Even though they were going to get things, to get more is always better. It’s always a blessing to receive.”
A new tradition
Augusta Fire Department Captain Jermaine Jennings said that although this is the department’s first time delivering toys, it will be far from the last.
“[We] plan on doing it each and every year now,” he said. “We’re looking for more partnerships to come out and join us.”
Jennings noted that the firefighters’ commitment to serving the community extended beyond their day-to-day duties.
“We love doing it; it brings us joy to help people,” he said. “We are in the business of serving community.”
