This time of year usually brings the best out of people. Walk down the street, and you're more likely to have random people smile at you and say "Happy holidays," or something of the sort. People also tend to be more giving around this time of year. Countless celebrities have showcased their generosity by buying Christmas gifts for those in need this year, but what one country music star did this holiday season is pretty remarkable.
Brantley Gilbert looks like a pretty tough guy on the outside, but it is clear that on the inside, he's got a heart of gold. Gilbert teamed up with Bendon, Inc, an educational publisher and toy company whose roster of characters includes Hello Kitty, Clifford the Big Red Dog, and Dora the Explorer, in order to deliver gifts to needy children. Gilbert and Bendon jointly donated a whopping $10.5 million worth of goods to needy children through Toys for Tots, a marine organization that gives toys and educational materials to underprivileged children.
Gilbert and Bendon ensured that the children weren't just getting used, undesirable items, but were receiving the best items possible. Said Bendon CEO Ben Ferguson: The items that we chose are brand new items featuring some of the best licenses in the world." He also added that Gilbert was "instrumental" in organizing the massive donation.
Said Gilbert in a statement regarding the donation:
"Growing up in rural Georgia, I know that sometimes Christmas isn't a time of joy for some kids and our contribution might be all they receive this year so I really wanted our donation to matter."
Hats off to Brantley Gilbert for bringing cheer to those in need.