Each year there are a number of local Shreveport kids that directly benefit from the efforts of the Graf Orthodontics Operation Santa Claus.

This incredible organization was created over thirty years ago to help Santa Claus provide toys for some less fortunate kids right here in our area of North Louisiana.

So far, no local child in need, has ever been refused. In some cases, these toys are the only ones these children will ever receive.

This morning we were out broadcasting live at Graf Orthodontics on Airline Drive in Bossier City asking for donations of new, unwrapped toys, or monetary donations, when we were blessed with a visit from Jeremy Gallman and Ryan Ross.

When I say they were there to make a donation, that's as big an understatement as I've ever made.

In fact, the back of their truck was full of new bicycles and when Jeremy opened the back door of his pickup, toys began to fall out of the door.

Of course, I immediately had to quiz him on the origin of the toys, and that's when the story got really good.

These toys were all given by other kids. Yes, kids helping kids. This past weekend, the North Louisiana High School Fishing League held a bass tournament on Cross Lake and according to Jeremy, the entry fee for each team was a new bicycle and another new, unwrapped toy.

I asked him if the high schoolers really understood the magnitude of their gifts and Gallman assured me that "they certainly know where these toys are going, and they couldn't contain their happiness when they made their donations."

Isn't that what it's all about?  Taking care of our own, and in this case, it was our youngest generation showing their generosity.

Thank you kids!

If you'd like to help out with a monetary donation or a new, unwrapped toy, join us at any of the following "Toy Stop" live broadcasts.

  • December 7 - 7am to 9am - Brookshires at 5828 Line Avenue in Shreveport
  • December 9 - 7am to 9am - Brookshires on Hwy 80 in Haughton
  • December 11 - 12pm to 2pm - Avalon Hair Studio
  • December 15 - 7am to 9am - Batteries Plus Bulbs

Toys can also be dropped off during normal business hours at Graf Orthodontics in Shreveport and Bossier City, or at Bayou Outdoor Supercenter, the boat store, RV store, or RV service center, or Notini's on Airline Drive in Bossier City.

If you'd rather just make your monetary donation online, just go to operationsc.com and make a payment through PayPal HERE.

Where Can You Find Santa Claus in Shreveport Area?

Santa Claus and his helpers will be making stops at several local businesses and events between now and Christmas.

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