HAZEL GREEN, Ala. — A local organization founded decades ago distributed gifts to more than 600 families this Christmas, even as the family running the operation works to keep it alive after their father’s death in October.
Gary Thomas established Santa’s Helpers almost 30 years ago, repairing used toys by hand to ensure each child received something special during the holidays. Thomas died in October from pancreatic cancer, leaving behind his family and a warehouse filled with thousands of gifts. His dying wish was to ensure the toy distribution would continue.
His wife, Barbara Thomas, now runs the distribution. She said the giveaway serves families facing various hardships, from financial struggles to immediate emergencies…