Eighteen local families went Christmas shopping tonight because of the generosity of BJ Kids 91 Foundation and its founder, Brandon McKinney, NFL defensive lineman and 2001 Chaminade Julienne High School graduate.
McKinney bought gift cards for the families and was on hand Monday night at Trotwood's Target on Shiloh Springs Road.
The event was provided by the Foundation in partnership with Agape for Youth.
The gift cards benefited 88 people and volunteers assisted the families in picking out gifts and wrapping them.
The children were excited and the parents relieved to be able to provide a "memorable Christmas," according to a release.
"The BJ Kids 91 Foundation would like to thank Target for opening their doors this evening. We would also like to thank the numerous volunteers that donated their time this evening," McKinney said in a prepared statement.
Signed as a free agent out of Michigan State in 2006, McKinney has played for the San Diego Chargers, Baltimore Ravens and was recently released by the Indianapolis Colts because of an injury.