The Tamaqua American Legion CH Berry Post 173 is helping the East End Fire Company make Christmas brighter for area families in need.

Earlier this month, Legionnaires approved supporting the Tamaqua fire company’s Family Christmas program, which provides gifts and meals to those in need.

The Legion, along with the American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion purchased 20 turkeys and recently turned them over to the East End.

The birds were purchased from Boyer’s Food Market in Tamaqua. Legion officials thanked the Boyer’s corporate office for matching some of its donation, and the store for holding the turkeys until delivery time.

Thomas McCarroll, who helps oversee the program for the fire company, said families are given turkeys and items needed for Christmas dinner. Each child also receives a gift and a clothing item.

This year, he said, the program will help 50 families and more than 150 children.

“We could use help with more turkeys and items you need for a Christmas dinner,” McCarroll said.

Donations of nonperishable items or monetary amounts can be dropped off at the 553 E. Broad St. fire house. McCarroll can be contacted through “Thomas McCarroll” on Facebook.

The Legion also continues to accept donations from members and others, and if successful, more turkeys will be purchased around Dec. 10. To make a tax-deductible donation to the Legion, contact adjutant Mike Polyak.