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Hearts Apart Children's Christmas party

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Emily Chilson
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Deployed and remote families gathered at the Airmen and Family Readiness Center Thursday, Dec. 11 to celebrate the holiday season at the Hearts Apart Children's Christmas Party. 

"Hearts Apart is an Air Force-wide program that tries to get the families together to meet other spouses and develop new friendships," said Master Sgt. Marsha Madsen, A&FRC NCO. "We ask the first sergeants for volunteers as well as have key spouses come out to volunteer." 

Children and their parents enjoyed snacks while watching Polar Express after making bracelets or ornaments for their deployed family member. The Christmas tree was quickly covered with glittering hand-made ornaments. 

"It's a really fun party," said 10-year-old Olivia Robinson. "I wanted to come and have a little bit of fun and make an ornament." 

Volunteers helped with arts and crafts as children waited for the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus - the main event at the Christmas party.
 
"My dad is deployed right now in Iraq," said 7-year-old Naomi Bradley. "But Santa Claus is coming and we need to be good so we get presents!" 

Once Santa and Mrs. Claus finally arrived, children took turns having their picture taken on Santa's lap. Each child also received a gift bag from the North Pole.
 
"More than 75 children and their parents were signed up to attend this Christmas party," Master Sergeant Madsen said. "Putting these events together is another way Team Shaw is taking care of deployed members and their families."