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Port Orchard community spreads Christmas cheer after tornado

Port Orchard neighbors rallied together Saturday to provide toys to needy families and those impacted by Tuesday’s devastating tornado.

It was an emotional day in Port Orchard Saturday as hundreds lined up for the South Kitsap Helpline's Holiday Giveaway. The event allows families who are struggling to come in and pick out gifts for their children.

The event was already planned before Tuesday’s EF-2 tornado swept through, but the destruction left more families in need of assistance.

“It’s devastating,” said Helpline Executive Director Jennifer Hardison. “People don't have money for the deductibles for their insurance to pay for windows that got blown out. We had a lot of those calls."

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Some families haven’t been able to return to their damaged homes, making it tough to give a nice Christmas to their children. The event allowed those families and others in need to pick out toys, gift cards, games, dolls, and wrapping paper to help keep the Christmas magic alive.

The goal was to make sure everyone at the event left with something else.

“What you're doing you're giving people hope,” said Tom Riedel. “Like a day of sunshine, it's not all going downhill there are other people that care."

Riedel is part of the Eagles Club who play a significant role in gathering donations and volunteering at the event.

The Bauer family is staying in a hotel after the tornado damaged their house. They're hoping to get back home soon, but say they feel lucky.

“I think as long as everybody's ok and safe, that's what keeps us sane,” said Tamara Bauer.

The family is grateful for gift cards and other help they received.

Helpline believes they will reach more than 1,200 children this season. Nobody leaves the event empty-handed or with an empty heart. Riedel stood at the door with his Santa hat to make sure they walk away with a hug.

“I tell people to pass that hug onto someone who's having a bad day, and you'll magically change how their day and change their life,” said Riedel.

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