The 2024 Santa's Toy Run festivities kicked off at Ogeechee Technical College's campus in Statesboro, where participants were treated to complimentary coffee and donuts, courtesy of Daylight Donuts. The campus buzzed with excitement as over 152 riders arrived, each bringing a new toy or contributing $10 for the 50-mile journey. Their ride was escorted by the dedicated officers of the Bulloch County Sheriff's Department.
Before the motorcyclists hit the road, WC Stringer, the chaplain of the Christian Motorcyclists Association, led the group in prayer. The sun was shining as the riders joined the police escort, embarking on a leisurely yet purposeful ride.
The camaraderie continued after the ride as participants reconvened at 7th Mile Farm, where attendees enjoyed lunch, door prizes, free sleigh rides, and an opportunity to meet Santa Claus himself.
Curtis Gay, the event's organizer, has been at the helm of Santa's Toy Run for over two decades. While the beneficiaries have varied over the years, for the past five years, the generous donations have consistently supported Fostering Bulloch. Reflecting on the event, Gay expressed his satisfaction, noting the impressive turnout.
"It was a great turnout," Gay said. "We had a full house."
Melinda Phillips, one of the many volunteers who made the event a success, remarked that even individuals who were unable to attend contributed to the cause.
"As usual, we had non-riders and riders who couldn't ride today that either stopped by to donate or sent a donation with a friend," she explained.
This year's Santa's Toy Run not only brought holiday cheer to countless foster children but also showcased the unwavering community support that makes such an impact possible.
For more information about the Christian Motorcyclists Association, please visit their website.
For more information about Fostering Bulloch, please visit their website.
