The Eatonton Fire Department hopes to provide at least 250 kids who live within Eatonton city limits with Christmas presents from the department’s 15th annual Fireman Santa’s Sleigh campaign.
Ranging from clothes to toys to sporting equipment to even bicycles, Eatonton Fire Department Chief Jamey Williamson said he’s focused on delivering the Christmas spirit to a record number of recipients in 2024.
“It started with about 50 kids the first year (2009), and last year, I think it was about 200, so we’re hoping to make this our biggest year yet," Williamson said.
Williamson said new, unwrapped toys and clothing for all ages, from infants to high schoolers, can be dropped off at the Eatonton Fire Department (214 W. Marion St., Eatonton 31024) until Dec. 9, or monetary donations of any amount can be dropped off or mailed to the same address.
“We do all our shopping right here in Eatonton, too, just to make sure our local stores and retailers get the benefit from the community’s generosity,” he added.
Eatonton-based parents or guardians are encouraged to visit the fire station to pick up an application with room to personalize requests on each page for up to six children living at home with them. It will define each child’s name, age, boy or girl, and three “most wanted” items (excluding electronics such as computers, TVs, game consoles, or cellphones). Bicycles remain possible (however, not for those who received one from Fireman Santa last year).
Completed applications must be returned by Nov. 22. Gift pick-up is scheduled for Dec. 14, when parents or guardians will receive an appointment time.
“We’re really hoping to set new Fireman Santa records this year for both donations and gift-giving,” Williamson repeated. “I know from experience that Eatonton is a very caring and generous community, so I feel pretty confident we can make this a great Christmas for a lot of people.”