11-27-2012 Merrill Osmond Visits to Support Forgotten Child Fund

Merrill was accompanied by his wife Mary and two grandchildren when he arrived at the Forgotten Child Fund toy store at 1715 E. Main Street this morning. Working with local volunteers and others who drove from around the region to meet the Osmond family, they packed boxes of toys that will be given to local families.

Merrill said his family has been involved in a similar operation in Salt Lake City, Utah, and when a friend here in Chattanooga mentioned what the Forgotten Child Fund was doing, he had to come and lend a hand. "I just think this is a wonderful operation," said Merrill. "There are so many families out there who need help, and I'm glad we can contribute to this worthwhile cause."

The Forgotten Child Fund provides toys for hundreds of needy families throughtout the area who are unable to buy Christmas presents for their children. It is best known for the Santa Train, a long parade of emergency vehicles and personnel that delivers presents to families on Christmas Eve.

This charity is operated and supported by volunteers with many emergency response agencies, including: Chattanooga Fire Department, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Rescue, Chattanoga Police Department, Hamilton County Emergency Services, Hamilton County Sheriff's Department, Red Bank Fire Department, Signal Mountain Fire Department and several volunteer fire departments.

For more information on how you can support the Forgotten Child Fund, visit the website at www.forgottenchildfund.com.

In the photo: Merrill and Mary Osmond (on his left) pause for a group photo with some of the Forgotten Child Fund volunteers.

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