A childhood promise carried forward
Captain James Freudenberg understands what Christmas uncertainty feels like. His own childhood experience became the motivation to help local children feel seen, celebrated, and remembered during the holidays.
In 2018, he joined with fellow Fort Walton Beach firefighters to build Christmas for the Kids. What started with a focused effort has grown through the generosity of volunteers, schools, organizations, businesses, and neighbors across the community.
Our mission
Keeping the Magic Alive means matching thoughtful gifts and essential items to each child’s requests, welcoming families with dignity, and creating joyful holiday moments without exposing private family information.
The program continues because people give what they can—time at a sorting table, a new unwrapped toy, a collection location, event-day help, or financial support for needs that donations do not always cover.