By By Adam Prestridge
The Christmas spirit was displayed Saturday as shoppers of Fred's in Atmore filled their buggies for children.
The local Firemen's Union and the Atmore Disaster Response Team collected toys and monetary donation beginning at 9 a.m. for children in Coden, Ala. that were effected by Hurricane Katrina. DRT organizer DeeDra Kelley and fireman Daniel White climbed to the top of Fred's and didn't come down until the back of a pickup truck was filled with gifts.
"It went great," Kelley said. "I was on the roof all day, so I didn't get to see a lot going on. I just couldn't believe how many toys that were donated."
Approximately 450 toys valued at $2,020 were donated along with $438 cash.
"I want to thank the fire union for what they did. It wouldn't have been half as good if it wouldn't have been for what they did," Kelley said. "It was actually there idea, they just came to us and asked us if we were interested in doing it with them."
The toys will be distributed to families in Coden on Dec. 10. She said the generous residents of Atmore and the surrounding areas helped make the event a success.
Kelley also wanted to thank Pizza Hut, Arby's, Fred's and Audio Plus.
Donation are still being accepted at Joey's Furniture located at 124 North Main Street.