KINGSPORT, Tenn., Dec. 3, 2025 — Appalachian Power (APCo) employees joined forces with CSX, the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, Food City and others to distribute more than 15 tons of toys to rural Appalachian communities during the 83rd Santa Train on Nov. 22.

The CXS Santa Train begins each year in Pikeville, Ky., and travels south, making 13 stops along the railway in Kentucky and Virginia before ending in Kingsport, Tenn. Its mission is to serve as the unofficial kickoff to the holiday season and spread joy to those who need it most.

“Santa Train was a family tradition for us,” said Bryan Clemons, distribution work plan manager. “From a young age, I remember my grandparents taking me.”

Clemons grew up near Yuma, Va., and now assists with planning and organizing volunteers annually. He’s one of the many employees who have been part of APCo’s partnership with the Santa Train over the last several years.

“As that train rides through those communities, you can really tell this is what Christmas means to them,” added Clemons. “We go into this trying to give back and spread that joy.”

President and Chief Operating Officer Aaron Walker noted that events like the Santa Train, where employees can interact one-on-one with customers, are defining for the company.

“This is a really visible event that impacts so many people,” said Walker. “I want customers to see us as more than just their monthly electricity bill, because we are your neighbors, too. We’re part of the communities we live and work in, and we’re committed to helping our communities grow.”

The CSX Santa Train this year distributed over 15,000 toys; nearly 5,000 backpacks stocked with books, hats and gloves; 2,000 rolls of wrapping paper and thousands of books, treats and teddy bears to children and families along the train route.