The generosity of the Sevier County people is really on display at Christmas time. Sure, other communities reach out to the needy during the holidays, but Sevier County seems to do it with deeper intensity.

Sevier County Electric System, which provides the electrical power to virtually all of the county, handed over a bounty of bicycles, tricycles and other toys this week to the Marine Corps League Toys for Tots program. More than two dozen beautiful and new children’s bikes will be among the gifts provided to boys and girls throughout the county on Saturday when the Toys for Tots distribution takes place at Belz Mall in Pigeon Forge.

The employees of Sevier County Electric really came through for the Toys for Tots program. Such a giving spirit may never have been as needed and appreciated as it is this year, when the sour economy and high jobless rate have taken a toll on the less fortunate among us.

Some 4,000 children will receive Christmas presents on Saturday, thanks to the Marine Corps League and its annual holiday efforts. These volunteers spend countless hours each year gathering support, both in terms of material goods and money, so they can assist the hundreds and hundreds of families that signed up for assistance. John Linnert, who coordinates Toys for Tots for the Marine Corps League, says the level of need this season has been almost overwhelming. Thankfully, the employees of the electric utility, who all have good jobs and security, are giving of themselves to help others they may never know or meet.

The spirit of Christmas is spiritual, to be sure, but no one’s faith should determine the level of Christmas they enjoy, especially children whose circumstances are beyond their control. Groups like the Marine Corps League help ensure some level of enjoyment and pleasure for the children of needy families.

Thanks to Sevier County Electric System and its employees for recognizing that spirit and taking it to a new and higher level. They have made many, many kids happy. Yes, that is the spirit of Christmas.