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On a Wednesday night filled with holiday cheer, American Legion Post 75 hosted its annual Christmas Celebration. This year the post gave away toys to local children and included a photo opportunity with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

“Post 75 in LaGrange focuses on several programs throughout the year and always looks forward to Christmas time when we can give back to the community,” Post Adjutant Tania Griffin said. “This year we decided to give toys to the community and invite Santa out this year.”

Griffin said she felt the event went well, and roughly 30 children came out for free toys and raffles for bikes.

“I feel that anytime we can assist one family is a huge success — fortunately, we were able to help several families,” Griffin said. “The Post members donated toys and, as a whole, raised about $1,200 for the event.”

Griffin said normally the Post will decide mid-year if they will do gifts for Seniors or a Children’s Christmas party, as last year the organization decided to give away Christmas baskets to seniors.

Griffin also said the best part of this year’s event was watching the kids choose a gift they wanted.

“The best part of the event last night would have to be the kids getting gifts that they liked and spending time with Santa,” Griffin said. “As a post, that is what makes it so special — seeing the kids enjoy the event.” 

Griffin said as a Post they will continue this holiday event annually and find other ways to help senior citizens in the community as they may do both next years.

“These type of programs makes a difference in the lives of thousands each year,” Griffin said.

“The men and women who take the time to perform them allow the American Legion to make a difference on the local, state and national levels — it’s who we are and what we do.”

For more information on American Legion Post 75 or assistance for veterans, contact Commander Charlie McCamey or Griffin at 706-416-2749. 

“On behalf of Post 75, we are happy to be a nonprofit organization that can give back to the community and help our veterans and local families in the community,” Griffin said.

“We understand that this can be a difficult time for some veterans and would like for those that need assistance to reach out to us.”