With the need for giving greater than ever, Gulf Power employees have come through to help make Christmas morning a special event for thousands of children in the area.

More than $50,000 in new toys, clothes, bicycles and cash has been donated by Gulf Power employees in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties to the Communities Caring at Christmas campaign which provides presents for underprivileged children.

"Being able to help make Christmas a little brighter for families in our communities is so important to our employees," said John Hutchinson, general manager of Public Affairs.

"We`ve seen such destruction during the past two storm seasons and know that restoring hope and normalcy is as important as restoring power."

Besides the toys and clothes, this year employees bought and put together more than 240 bicycles with helmets. This year`s total – $53,148 – is the most ever contributed in the company`s 10-year history of supporting Communities Caring at Christmas.

"Our employees raised and donated their own money to this cause," Hutchinson said. "Helping others is part of our corporate culture and there are few things more special than helping a child have a happy Christmas morning."