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State Workers Send Holiday Cheer To 900 Pennsylvanians

HARRISBURG (CBS) -- State workers have once again pitched in to brighten the holidays of some 900 of their fellow Pennsylvanians.

Children from capitol complex child care centers provided the musical accompaniment as state workers in Harrisburg prepared to ship out gifts to about 200 families and 100 seniors, a total of 900 people identified as being in need.

Department of Human Services Secretary Ted Dallas said the state workers' Holiday Wish program has grown from humble beginnings in his agency, formerly known as the Department of Public Welfare, almost three decades ago.

"I think it was about six or seven employees who decided to get together, work with the Department of Labor and Industry (with L&I) to really try to brighten the holidays for just a few families that were having a tough time. It's grown from that in 27 years."

Donated gifts were shipped out via National Guard vehicles to county assistance offices for distribution.

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