Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
Santa arrived early for some children at Carilion Children’s this Christmas, thanks to Salem High School graduate Chris Cole.
Cole, a former all-state football standout for the Salem Spartans and current inside linebacker for the University of Georgia Bulldogs, visited Carilion’s pediatric unit this week to deliver toys and spread holiday cheer to children spending Christmas in the hospital.
Taking a break from College Football Playoff preparations, Cole returned home to give back through the Chris Cole Foundation’s Christmas Toy Drive. The initiative collected toys from across the area and distributed them to children unable to be home for the holidays.
“This is all about coming together to bring joy to children spending Christmas in the hospital,” Cole said. “No child should ever feel forgotten during the holidays.”
The Salem Civic Center served as a drop-off location for toy donations, which were delivered directly to Carilion Children’s to ensure they reached patients and families in need.
Carilion Children’s is a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital, serving children and families throughout the region.
