LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - Republic Bank has teamed up with the Family Care Center in Lexington for the past fifteen years to bring a Christmas celebration to local children.

Staff at the Family Care Center say many of the children in the program would not be able to have such an elaborate celebration without the generosity of the bank.

Republic Bank employees and others in the bank building on Alumni Drive purchase the presents to fulfill the wish lists of all the kids.

It's something that the kids look forward to every year along with the staff.

The Fayette County Coroner is one of Santa's helpers, stepping in for Santa at this event for at least fifteen years.

"I think it can tell you a lot about a lot of public figures because if you look around the room, you'll see people who have really busy schedules, especially Santa. This just means a lot to them and they get a big kick out of coming here and seeing the kids faces light up, “says
Joanna Rodes, the Director of Family Services for Urban County Government.

"This kind of brings homes what Christmas is. And when they're so innocent and so excited to see Santa. It's just a wonderful thing. Everybody has a great day on today," says Jennifer Allen, the Senior Administrative Assistant to the Market President of Republic Bank.