Christmas is a time for counting our blessings but also serves as a time when we are reminded to give to those less fortunate, especially children in need.

No child should go without a toy at Christmas.

On Friday, Dec. 8, First Natchez Radio Group, Concordia Bank and Dairy Queen joined forces with the U.S. Army in the annual “Santa’s Soldiers” toy drive. Radio station 95Country broadcast live from the Natchez Dairy Queen between from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. collecting over 32 bags of toys and over $2,000 in monetary donations.

The money and toys will be distributed on Dec. 19 to local charities like The Sunshine Shelter, The Natchez Children’s Home and Catholic Charities.

Thank you to all the generous people who donated to “Santa’s Soldiers.”

May your Christmas be a happier one knowing that you helped put smiles on the faces of needy children in our community.