JOHNNY TILLER shows his joy at receiving a warm throw, presented by Karli Willis.

Christmas came to Bainbridge Healthcare residents early this week, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the Theresa D. Young Foundation and the Bainbridge Housing Authority.

Amidst cheery greetings of “Merry Christmas,” 88 warm throws, all wrapped in holiday paper, were handed out by several youngsters to the residents of the facility. The throws were purchased from Belk, thanks to the generous donation of Ben Chason.

Diane Chason, who founded the organization, explained this is the first year they have done this, but they want to make it a tradition, and will choose a different location to make the distribution each year.

Chason said young students were chosen to hand out the gifts because many of the residents have little or no contact with youth, and she also thought it would be a good experience for the youth.

“Santa’s helpers” were Karli, Brooklyn and Dax Willis, Taylor and Judy Brown, Cathy and Suzy Willis, Laurie Connell and Diane Chason.