“You see all the donations, the well-wishers and the kids. It’s just unbelievable.”

DOBBINS, Ga. (July 2017): Children’s charity Kids Wish Network brought its 16th Project Toy Drop event to the Dobbins Air Reserve Base on July 8. Over $305,000 worth of new toys, educational items, games, and other necessities were distributed to children of military families.

Kids excitedly sorted through stacks of toys, games, and necessities, filling up bags with all of their favorite things courtesy of Kids Wish Network. Families also enjoyed inflatable bouncing houses, appearances, and entertainment by Belle and Spiderman, great food, and many additional fun festivities. Both kids and adults were thrilled when Spiderman fired t-shirts into the crowd from a t-shirt launcher.

“You see all the donations, the well-wishers and the kids. It’s just unbelievable,” said Major Andrea Walthour, a communications squadron commander at Dobbins. “It’s Christmas in July for our families.”

Starting as a wish-granting organization that creates memorable wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses, Kids Wish Network has expanded over the years to include additional programs. Project Toy Drop travels the country, creating miles of smiles for deserving children ages 3-16 who are either kids of American servicemen and women or at-risk youth facing significant challenges. This program creates a special day of unity that brings happiness and hope to many children and their families.

“I absolutely love it,” said Catherine Poontiset, who attended with her four kids. “It’s not just the actual military officers, it’s the wives and the children, and they needed this. They have been missing him (their dad) so bad.”

“We’re so honored to celebrate our military families who have made a multitude of sacrifices bravely protecting our nation and defending our freedom,” said Kids Wish Network Executive Director Anna Lanzatella. “Project Toy Drop brings together children and families who understand the challenges of frequently relocating and missing a parent who may be deployed far away. It creates a very special bonding experience and brings comfort and support.”

Kids Wish Network would like to thank Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter, Publix, Duncan Donuts, Kroger, Costco, The Cheesecake Factory, WILLIAMSON BROS. BAR-B-Q, Dream Friends Entertainment, Andretti’s Indoor Karting, and Games Marietta, and Chick-Fil-A Marietta Trade Center for their gracious generosity. Also much gratitude to Central Transport for their continued partnership and kindness in helping to deliver miles of smiles to deserving children throughout the country.