CASPER, Wyoming - Employees with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in Wyoming pooled their efforts to make the 2020 holiday season brighter for a local family who had suffered losses and experienced challenges during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
TSA teamed up with the Celebrate Recovery chapter in Casper, Wyoming, to identify a family who could benefit from donations. After learning about the specific needs of the family that included children, the TSA began collecting food and gift donations from employees statewide.
“As dedicated public servants, it is no surprise that TSA employees generated tangible expressions of support for the family in need,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Wyoming Matt McKeon. “TSA is known for stepping up during times of need and this holiday season is no exception. I am proud to be part of this selfless and generous team of employees.”
Two employees based in Casper, Gina Ehlin and Kelsey Vine, were key in spearheading the effort. After making contact with the family to determine their needs, they established an “Angel Tree.” It included ornaments with the family’s specific requests written on them so employees who wanted to support the effort would know what was most needed. TSA also collected food items for the family.
In less than two weeks, more than 20 gifts were collected. Many employees combined their money in order to be able to purchase useful items for the family.
The food and gifts were delivered on Friday, Dec. 18, 2020. In addition to the difficulties associated with COVID-19, the family has suffered loss this year. Upon receiving the donations, the family’s response was overwhelming gratefulness.
“I am thankful for employees who answer the call when they see there is a need that we can meet,” said FSD McKeon. “They put a lot of effort into this meaningful act of kindness, rallying our team of security professionals, sparking a remarkable outpouring of generosity that has made the holidays better for members of our community.”