Christmas comes early for some Chattanooga children

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Hundreds of kids had their names called to receive early presents at Christmas in District 8, including the Orchard Knob and East Lake neighborhoods.

Kids from these areas filled out their lists and councilman Anthony Byrd helped make sure their wishes came true.

Councliman Byrd said today they were, “giving back to the community and just showing people that you know we can come together and do something positive especially when we work together.”

Individuals and businesses, like the Signal Mountain Walmart, donated money and toys to fill the hearts of these Chattanooga children with joy — especially Chelsey Benn.

“I’m so excited so I can open up for Christmas,” said Benn.

Malarie Marsh was born and raised in the Avondale area and wanted to give back so the children could have a great Christmas.

“I firsthand experienced some of the struggles that these families go through so since the Lord has blessed me to be in a better place in my life, I wanted to bless others so the children could be blessed first hand,” Marsh told News 12.

Marsh and Councilman Byrd know that good things happen when people work together.

Councilman Byrd was in awe of all the help they were able to give the kids. “So when we unite we can conquer the world and so today we did that. We conquered Chattanooga, We conquered district 8. And we fed and gave presents to over 300 people today.”