Santa came early for 252 needy families in a three-county area thanks to Chappell’s Karate Basket Brigade, a humanitarian project aimed at providing food for those in need at Christmas time.

The food was purchased from donations collected by Chappell’s Karate students from their families, friends and neighbors. They exceeded the goal of raising enough money to fund 230 boxes of food. Last year’s total was 227 boxes.

The food items, which included frozen turkeys, canned vegetables, potatoes, dinner rolls, pies and soft drinks, were packaged and sent out from the Osborne, Warren and Oden Recreational Center in Hartselle Friday morning by about 40 volunteers on Friday morning and delivered by trucks, trailers and cars. Each box also contained a Bible and a Christmas greeting card.

Project coordinator Amanda Bussey said most of the food, which had a retail value of $32 per box, went to Morgan County residents.  A few families living in Cullman, Limestone and Marshall County also received help.

“The project serves two purposes,” Bussey said. “We want to help local families in need, but just as importantly, we want to provide a firsthand giving experience to our students, especially the children.

“This is my first year to volunteer because my son Cade is a beginning karate student,” said Shane Stewart. “I’m here because it’s a character building experience. “It’s definitely in keeping with the Christmas season and it lets the kids know how fortunate they are.”

Irene Daniels baked a birthday cake for a one-year old little girl whose family is receiving several gifts as a part of the Basket Brigade.

“It made me feel good to do something to make their holiday brighter,” Daniels said. “I was afraid the family wouldn’t be able to have a cake for her if someone didn’t step up and help.”

“I’ve helped out for several years,” said Jacob Chappell,” and it makes he feel good to help those in need. It adds a lot to my Christmas enjoyment, too.”