A new partnership between the Cullman Elks Lodge #1609 and the Cullman Veterans of Foreign Wars has distributed more than 300 gift bundles to local families, creating a new tradition that organizers say is here to stay.
The inaugural “Toys of Joy” initiative was originally started by Elks member Jessica Atchley to support families who requested assistance after most other holiday toy assistance sign-ups had closed. As the group saw how widespread the need was, more volunteers joined the effort, and the program began to expand.
Realizing the importance of making their efforts official, the Lodge launched the inaugural program earlier this year.
In a press statement, Atchley emphasized that one of the main priorities of the program is to remain 100% local, ensuring that every dollar and toy reaches a child in Cullman County and helps strengthen the community.
“There is something truly special about serving locally,” Atchley said. “When your donors are your neighbors and every child you help lives right here at home, the impact feels deeply personal.”
Rather than replacing existing programs, Toys of Joy was designed to fill a unique role by allowing families to request assistance even after other initiatives have ended. Atchley noted that sudden job loss, medical emergencies, or unexpected financial hardships can present challenges for families during the holidays, but the community’s response has ensured that those children can still experience Christmas joy.
Local businesses, churches, civic groups, and individuals shopped, organized, and distributed more than 300 bundles containing personalized gifts for children that reflected their individual interests and needs.
“Toys of Joy simply could not exist without our sponsors,” Atchley said. “They didn’t just give financially—they gave hope. Their kindness touched families they may never meet, and that’s the true heart of this season.”
Planning for 2026 is already underway, with the goal of strengthening local partnerships and serving even more families next year.
“If even one child wakes up believing in magic again, every moment of work is worth it,” Atchley said. “Cullman proved once again that when we serve together, joy multiplies.”
https://cullmantimes.com/2025/12/22/local-initiative-delivers-joy-for-the-holidays/
