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More than 1000 local kids get gifts just in time for Christmas

Salvation Army Angel Tree Program
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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL)--Taking home a brand new bike, that's a gift Joe Wimberly says his son really wanted for christmas...

"This is one cool bike," said Wimberly.

This is all made possible by the Salvation Army's Angel Tree program that's been around for over 100 years. It's a program that calls on community members across the globe to sponsor needy children and families for the holidays and buy them gifts.

"I am amazed of the power of the community of the power of the generosity of people who came along side us that in less than two weeks they made all of this happen," said Captain Julio Dasilva.

Its something that parents like Wimberly definitely appreciates.

"I'm glad that they could provide , myself I wasn't worried about , I just wanted to be able to have something to put under tree for my kids this year," said Wimberly.

"Everybody falls on hard times and everybody needs help sometimes so i just i counted it all as a blessing just to be helped," said Beverely Metzs.

All of the parents must show proof of need, which includes proof of income and bills. Many volunteers packed up the boxes with the gifts and send the families away with a smile.

"This day is a very moving day because we see the parents receiving those toys and they leave with tears in their eyes when they see all the toys that they receive and all the clothes that they receive for their kids," said DaSilva.

The parents said on Christmas day, they just may have tears in their eyes when their kids open up those boxes.