Atlanta Gas Light Brings Holiday Cheer to Patients at Memorial Health Children’s Hospital

Volunteers came together to deliver gifts and joy to children and their families

Santa had extra helpers this year after making his list and checking it twice — thanks to Atlanta Gas Light.

Volunteers recently delivered toys, games and crafts to children at Memorial Health Dwaine and Cynthia Willett Children’s Hospital of Savannah. The company also donated a mobile bedside gaming system to the hospital.

“We are so thankful to have partners in the community like Atlanta Gas Light,” said Heather Newsome, administrative director of Memorial Health Children’s Hospital. “We have enough toys to spread cheer throughout the entire holiday season. That’s really important because children will be here during the holidays, and every effort to brighten their day makes a big impact.”

This year marked the 10th anniversary of Atlanta Gas Light’s partnership with the hospital, with thousands of toys donated for the event.

“We’re proud to support community partners such as Memorial Health Children’s Hospital who continue to make a positive impact throughout the communities we serve,” said Dean Marianos, vice president of operations at Atlanta Gas Light. “For a decade, our volunteers have stood shoulder to shoulder with the hospital to bring joy to the children and their families who can’t be home for the holidays.”

Travis Boykin, senior safety and health specialist for Atlanta Gas Light, has coordinated the company’s annual tradition with the hospital since its inception.

“I’m truly grateful for the support we’ve received to continue this incredible program over the years,” Boykin said. “Sharing this experience with the kids and their families is one of the greatest treasures we have in our community.”

Over the last nine years, Atlanta Gas Light employees have donated thousands of toys to the hospital.

Among this year’s volunteers was Lawrence Hoover, an Atlanta Gas Light employee and former patient who once received a toy from the company. Returning years later to help drive Atlanta Gas Light’s sleigh to the hospital, he said, “It was exciting to see the joy on the kids’ faces. Being a part of this program has meant a lot, and when I had an opportunity to be part of this experience last year, I was ready.”