MOAA members and Santa Rita Fire Department firefighters show some of the gifts donated for teens in the area. (Photo by John McGee)
Peggy McGee
The elves from the Green Valley Chapter, Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), were busy at work trying to make the holidays merrier for teens from low-income families in the local area. For the past several years, the local fire departments have been partnering with the Salvation Army to provide gifts for families and seniors.
According to the Santa Rita Fire Department, teens are usually the forgotten ones when it comes to holiday gifts when families are strapped for cash, with younger children getting the gifts. Being young at heart, MOAA members decided to focus on teens. At their November meeting, they provided basketballs, soccer balls, and footballs; helmets and safety equipment for those who have bikes or skateboards; and board games and puzzles to representatives from the fire department. Gift cards, grooming products, and jewelry were also donated.