This photo, taken several years ago, shows Everett Adams (dressed as Santa Clause) posing in a picture with a child that visited the "Christmas for the Kids" event. Behind them are bags of fruit and candy given to each child when they visit.

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The Lansing Volunteer Fire Department plans to give gifts to the children in district when they celebrate the 20th anniversary of their “Christmas for the Kids” event.

“This is our way to give back to the community for supporting the fire department,” said Everett Adams, the chief of the LVFD.

According to Adams, “Christmas for the Kids” came from humble beginnings. The events started as a Christmas dinner hosted by the department two decades ago. Later, members of the fire department took $80 they had raised over the year and bought gifts for children.

Then, the fire department requested 40 names of children from Blue Ridge Elementary School. Members of the fire department went to each child’s house dressed as Santa Claus to deliver gifts to the children.

As “Christmas for the Kids” grew in popularity, delivering the gifts to each house became too difficult. Instead, the decision was made to have the children visit the fire house to receive their gifts.

For the last 14 years, children have visited the fire house and received gifts from a member of the Lansing VFD dressed like Santa Claus, who calls out their names after they register to receive a present.

Along with receiving gifts, the children and their families will be treated to hamburgers and hot dogs, along with a bag of fruit and candy, all provided by the Lansing Volunteer Fire Department. Also, the Lansing Area Ladies Auxiliary (LALA) provides desserts for the event.

According to Adams, the Lansing VFD has needed in recent years between 80-120 hamburgers and about 100 hot dogs.

Adams said this event also helps the local economy because all supplies come from Lansing Foods, a country grocery store across from the Lansing fire house.

The money for “Christmas for the Kids” is raised during the Lansing VFD’s final barbecue of the year. Also, the fire department receives donations for the event.

“One of the best things is to watch the kid’s expressions when they open their gifts. That’s what makes the whole thing worth it,” said Adams.

“Christmas for the Kids” will take place from 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 16, at the Lansing Fire Department. Any child from the Lansing fire district under the age of 14 is encouraged to attend.