UK Healthcare delivers toys to more than 600 students through annual Circle of Love event

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – UK Healthcare employees packed buses, trucks and trailers with toys Friday as part of the 39th annual Circle of Love gift pickup, an effort that supports children across Central Kentucky.

Staff and volunteers work with schools in surrounding counties each year to identify families in need and help create wish lists for students.

“Right now, due to economic troubles, due to losing a job or due to benefits not coming through, they’re really struggling making ends meet,” Jill Hargis, with Woodford County Schools said.

Hargis also said many of the gifts go to students in foster care, those in the custody of the state or students participating in alternative programs. She said these children would not have a Christmas without Circle of Love.

“These students that receive these gifts, it’s such a nice lift to the families that they can provide a Christmas for their children when they wouldn’t be able to typically,” Hargis said.

Officials say the toys will reach more than 600 students across eight counties. All gifts are purchased by UK Healthcare volunteers and employees.

Jason Brune with UK Healthcare said the effort gives students hope during the holidays.

“It gives them hope that no matter where you are in life, that someone is going to come through for you,” Brune said. “Fortunately, the employees and volunteers at UK Healthcare have done that.”

Brune added that even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in a child’s life.