Over 180 children in Walker County were recently visited by Santa Claus thanks to the generosity of employees at Honda of Jasper and Hyundai of Jasper.
Kevin Callahan, general manager and owner of the two dealerships, helped Santa by delivering more than 100 bicycles to Head Start students in Parrish and Jasper. Additionally, Christmas gifts were given to 70 pre-K students from Sumiton Elementary School.
Callahan, who even dressed as Santa for the giveaways, expressed his joy in participating in this annual event, stating that not only do the children enjoy it, but the teachers, parents and dealership staff also have a great time.
“We all have a great time each year in delivering the gifts and bikes to the children,” he said. “It’s something special that my team looks forward to and enjoys doing. This year, we even had customers who saw the bikes in our showroom and asked how they could help out.”
During his visits, Santa (Callahan) took the time to speak with each child and have pictures taken. One child in Sumiton asked for a recliner for Christmas, saying a grownup in his home did not like to share.
Approximately 180 children received bikes or toys as part of the giveaway. The Sumiton students had their visit on Thursday, Dec. 14, while the Parrish and Jasper students met Santa on Friday, Dec. 15. The Sumiton giveaway was a Breakfast with Santa held at Lee’s Restaurant. The Parrish and Jasper giveaways were at the old Parrish High School, the Jasper Area Family Services Center and North Highlands School.
Callahan emphasized the importance of ensuring that Head Start students receive gifts for Christmas and expressed gratitude for the partnership with Head Start. He credited the success of the program to the dedicated teachers who provide the necessary information for the annual event.
“This year, more than any other year, these Head Start teachers really need to be recognized, because despite them not knowing the futures of their jobs, they worked hard again to be sure their students were taken care of this Christmas,” Callahan said.
