FRANKLIN — They might have not worn red hats or little green shoes, but the spirit of Santa Claus and his elves was alive and well among the volunteers handing out gifts Tuesday at the St. Mary Community Action Agency in Franklin. 

The agency’s annual Adopt-A-Family Program was held inside the CAA’s gymnasium, turning a basketball court into a makeshift Santa’s workshop for local families and their children.

“We are here for you, and we are so blessed to provide you with this Adopt-a-Family program,” agency CEO Almeria Franklin said.

Susan Escort, right, stands with her daughter, 4 year-old Madelyn, after the pair received Christmas gifts through the St. Mary Community Action Agency. JUSTIN HALL / THE DAILY IBERIAN Advertisement

Through donations from sponsors such as Alpha of Charisma, LaGrange 4-H Club and Down South Riders, among others, gifts were packaged in festive wrapping paper to be handed to families during a special ceremony. 

Program Coordinator Linda Moreaux said without the sponsors’ help, the event could not be possible.

“We thank you for the sacrifice that you have shown today,” Moreaux said.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of the gifts by agency members and representatives of the various sponsors.

Susan Escort, of Morgan City, was delivered her gift by a member of Alpha of Charisma alongside her 4-year-old daughter Madelyn.

“It was truly a blessing,” Escort said. 

Escort was one of more than 30 families participating in the event. 

Along with the gift ceremony, the hour-long program also consisted of the Head Start Children reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, a Christmas musical medley from the agency choir and a special story by Izola Cooper, who reminded the audience that “Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.”

The St. Mary Community Action Agency is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping provide care and services to the communities of St. Mary and Vermilion parishes. It is located at 1407 Barrow St. in Franklin.