Pope Airmen make wishes come true for foster children

  • Published
  • By Airman Mindy Bloem
  • 43rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs Office
POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. (AFPN) --  Air Force security forces members donated gifts to local foster children Dec. 18 as a way to spread a little holiday cheer this season. 

Tech. Sgt. John Searor, who is with the 43rd Security Forces Squadron here, recruited Tech. Sgt. Steven Kennedy to help him gather gifts for local children in the foster care system in Cumberland County, N.C. 

Sergeant Kennedy received an overwhelming response from members of his squadron who wanted to help, he said. 

"I sent out an e-mail to our unit explaining our plan and asked those with a little extra in their hearts and wallets to stop by my office and sign for a wish list," Sergeant Kennedy said. 

Sandra Robinson, with the social services office, provided the 43rd SFS with a wish lists for 30 of more than 500 foster children. 

"Our first sergeant also made contact with the person responsible for the recent toy drop, and they donated 30 additional toys to our unit," Sergeant Kennedy said. "Because of their kindness we will be able to give gifts to 60 foster children." 

"It's always good to give back," said Airman 1st Class Scott Preston, a 43rd SFS member. "Anyone can make a child's life better for a time, or at least for a season." 

Local organizations and churches also donated gifts, and an angel tree was placed at the Walmart in Hope Mills. 

"I think one of the most unselfish acts of community service is to serve children who are displaced," Ms. Robinson said. 

"A lot of people have helped out but we're not done," said Debbie McDonald, the president of the foster parents association. "We have until Friday to push for (enough)gifts (to) make sure all the children get a Christmas." 

Sergeants Searor and Kennedy hope to make the event even bigger next season, they said. 

Watching the children's reactions as they open their Christmas gifts is the highlight of the season, Ms. McDonald said. 

"Their little eyes dance and their faces just light up with big smiles," she said. "It's really wonderful to watch." 

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