CSX Santa Train completes 83rd run serving communities in need

The CSX Santa Train completed its 83rd annual run on Nov. 22, delivering gifts to communities along a 110-mile route through Kentucky, southwest Virginia and Tennessee.

The long-running holiday tradition was extra meaningful this year, as it marked one year since Hurricane Helene brought severe flooding through the region. Several communities along the train route also experienced flooding in July, CSX officials said in a press release.

CSX distributed more than 15,000 toys, 6,000 train safety books and 5,700 backpacks filled with gloves, hats and other gifts during the trip. The Class I partnered with Appalachian Power, Food City and the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce to coordinate the donations and with nonprofit Good360 to provide the winter clothing. 

"Every year, we cherish being part of something that continues to bring joy and hope to families in this region, especially after the challenges that many of them have faced this year," said Bryan Tucker, CSX vice president of stakeholder engagement and sustainability.