FORT BENNING, Ga., (Sept. 18, 2013) -- Gear up for Christmas and help military Families in need with the Elf Run. Santa's Castle's annual 5K and 1-Mile Family Fun Run is Sept. 28 at Stewart Watson Field.
Registration and package pickup is at 7 a.m. The 5K begins at 8 a.m. and the 1-Mile Family Fun Run starts at 8:45 a.m. Preregistration is $15-$20. Late registration starts Sept. 13 and is an additional $5.
Santa's Castle is a nonprofit organization that provides toys to children of Fort Benning Soldiers who are facing financial hardship, said Tracy Bailey, publicity chair for Santa's Castle.
"Given the economic times of the past three years, we have seen an increase in applications from Families in need but a decrease in charitable giving," said Bailey, "Now more than ever is the time to show your support."
Besides the annual run, she said, people can also give by hosting a toy drive or going to www.santascastlebenning.org to donate online.
"This year, we are growing even more by partnering with Club Beyond and adding a mini carnival," she said. "It's an exciting environment and all to give military kids presents at Christmastime."
In addition, there will be a costume contest and the Doughboy Football Team will be at the event, Bailey said. Registered participants receive a wristband to attend the carnival; otherwise the wristbands are $5. Participants will also receive a door prize ticket and a bonus ticket if a toy is donated. Those who pre-registered are guaranteed a T-shirt.
Participating children will receive a ribbon, she said. Prizes are for first through third place overall and the top three males and top three males in the categories of 12 and younger, 13-18, 19-29, 30-39 and 40 and older. Prizes are also awarded for best costumes in group and individual categories.
"It's a great cause," she said. "A Family event -- and you're helping out U.S. Army Soldiers and their Families. Plus, I think Santa might come down from the North Pole to show his support. And who doesn't want to see Santa in September?"
Those interested in volunteering to help with the event may do so by emailing Santa's Castle at fortbenningsantascastle@gmail.com.
For more information on Santa's Castle or to make a donation, visit http://santascastlebenning.org.
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