One doesn’t need to be rich in order to make a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate or in need of help and some love. On the contrary, all one needs in order to impact others is to have a heart of gold.
So, what’s a better time for spreading kindness and positivity if not the most beautiful period of the year, Christmas time?
Jim Annis of Sanford, North Carolina is the real life Santa for a great number of kids. This 80-year-old man has been making toys for children for over 50 years and his age won’t stand on his way of putting smiles on so many tiny faces.
His creations are unique as he puts a lot of love in handcrafting each and every one of them.
Believe it or not, Jim sends over 300 toys a year to his local Salvation Army. This incredible man, who is also a veteran, says, “When the Salvation Army gives out the food and clothes to people in this area, I give out my toys. It feels like you’re sort of forgotten about at Christmas time.”
He makes the toys from wooden scraps he collects from his neighbors and spends about $1,000 himself on the wheels and the paint.
“My dad worked but didn’t make a lot of money. It’s hard to have a big Christmas with five kids. I love it when people ask me how much do I get paid for making these toys. I tell them my pay is when I see the smile on kids’ faces. I hope to be able to do this until my toes curl up,” Jim says.
We need more people like this man in the world, who remind us what Christmas is all about, and that’s love and sharing.
Take a look at the video below to learn more of Jim’s project.