Toy raises spirits, toys and donations

The wind might have been chilly, but the weather couldn't dampen the spirits of the rescue squad and Sheriff's Department officers that donated their time over the weekend to raise toys and donations for Trousdale children.

The group gathered lots of toys and $1,535 in donations during their toy drive in front of Foodland Friday and Saturday.

"We had one woman with out of county tags that stopped here and gave $400," said Sgt. Joe Sullins with the Sheriff's Department. "People just give from their heart. If it wasn't for all these people that volunteer and citizens…we really couldn't make this happen."

With the money raised, Christmas for Kids will be able to help 15 more kids as the numbers of children on the list continue to climb over 190.

"I wish it was a perfect world, but it ain't. So we do what we can," said Sullins.

Thanks to the fundraising efforts of Sheriff's Department, rescue squad, fire department, ambulance service and several businesses through out the year, Christmas for Kids can continue to reach out and make sure that every child will have something under their tree come Christmas according to Sullins.

"I couldn't even imagine waking Christmas morning and not getting something."

Sullins added, "There is always a need, especially during the winter time. People's light bills are higher. The way the economy is, food is higher, gas …it makes it difficult, sometimes, to provide for your family as far as the necessities go."

Christmas for Kids will provide each child with a new set of clothing, coat, shoes and a shopping spree with a volunteer or officer. Each child was nominated through referrals from the school system or other people in the community.

"I'm just glad that all of the departments, stores let us do this," said Sullins. "If it wasn't for everybody and other citizens, we couldn't do it."

Managing Editor Marie Corhern can be reached at 615-779-3133 or by email at thevidette@bellsouth.net.