The Franklin Civic and Social Club got in the holiday giving spirit on Monday when they presented a check to benefit the city of Russellville’s Helping Santa program.

Club member Robert Hillman, Jr. said they felt this was one way they could give back to the community during the Christmas season.

“We decided 19 years ago when our club was first formed that we were going to give back to our community,” Hillman said. “We realize that we can’t help everybody but donating to the city’s Helping Santa program helps us reach a lot of kids because the program benefits so many deserving children.”

Russellville Fire Department Capt. Randy Seal, who is coordinating the program, said they had just over 500 children signed up to receive gifts this year.

“This program is a joint effort and we can’t do it without the help of the community,” Seal said.

Fire Chief Joe Mansell said its people like the members of the Franklin Civic and Social Club that make this yearly event possible.

“We appreciate the generous donation these men have given to make sure these 500 kids have a great Christmas,” Mansell said. “Times are hard and we’re really lacking on the donations of money and gifts, so every little bit counts.”

Seal said they will still be accepting monetary donations and donations of new or slightly used toys up until Friday at 5 p.m.

He added they are especially in need of donations of new or slightly used toys for boys and girls ages newborn to three and ages 10 to 15.

This year’s program is open to residents in the city of Russellville as well as tornado victims, so Seal said it was important to help these people who have gone through so much this past year.

Pick-up days for gifts will be Dec. 19 for those living inside the city limits of Russellville, Dec. 20 for tornado victims, and Dec. 21 for those living in the county but outside the city limits as gifts are available.

Anyone who would like to make donations of new or slightly used toys can drop the toys off in the Helping Santa boxes located at the following businesses and locations: Russellville City Hall, Ralph C. Bishop Community Center, Chucky Mullins Center, Russellville Police Department, Russellville Fire Department Stations 1 and 2, Russellville Street Department, Dependable True Value, Country Cottage Assisted Living, Hibbetts Sporting Goods, Fred’s, Five Star Pizza, Advance Auto Parts, Auto Zone, Alabama Central Credit Union, First Metro Bank, Valley State Bank, Community Spirit Bank, CB&S Bank, Valley Credit Union, Trikes Unlimited, Jack’s Restaurant, Wal-Mart, O’Riley Auto Parts, Peebles, CVS, Drug Shop, Family Pharmacy and Hometown Pharmacy.

Monetary donations can be made at any of the banks included in the list.

For questions or for further information, contact the RFD at 256-332-8761 or 256-332-8711 or the Sgt. Linda Michaels at the Russellville Police Department at 256-332-2230.