Anniston Army Depot employees delivered three truckloads of gifts and bicycles to Calhoun County's Department of Human Resources office in Anniston Dec. 16. It was the culmination of the 2015 Christmas Cheer program.
The depot's 32-year history with Christmas Cheer began with assistance to depot employees - providing food for the holidays. But, employees quickly began to look outside the installation's gates.
In 1997, the program teamed up with DHR, supporting 58 children that year. This year, the installation will make the holidays happier for 210 children in DHR protective custody.
"It's wonderful how the workforce comes together to help the Department of Human Resources and the local community," said Maj. Aatif Hayat, the medical director for the Dear Occupational Health Clinic, a tenant organization at Anniston Army Depot.
Hayat, who came to ANAD in 2014, personally participated in Christmas Cheer for the first time this year. He and his wife purchased gifts for an eight year old boy.
"Being in the military, we move around a lot. It's important, therefore, to be a part of the community and this is a good way to be involved in this area," said Hayat.
For each child, employees gave gifts valued between $150 and $175. This means depot and tenant employees gave over $31,000 in support of the children.
Department of Human Resources case workers will ensure the wrapped gifts make it to the homes of sponsored children before Christmas Day.
"This is a great expression of love and kindness shown to children who may not experience a merry Christmas," said Sam Smith, DHR director. "Some of these children are in situations where the finances don't allow extras. We can't thank the depot enough for their generosity."
Christmas Cheer also allows depot employees to sponsor installation families. Coworkers who experienced hardships this year and have financial needs are approved through depot leadership for participation in this program.
These installation families are anonymous to contributors -- only identified by a number and the family's situation.
This year, 10 depot families were sponsored by coworkers, who provided money or purchased gifts for the family members.
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