LEWISTON — The holiday season is much brighter for several area families this year thanks to the generosity of employees at Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice. Santa delivered nearly 50 gifts to children and families who otherwise would have gone without this Christmas in the Lewiston-Auburn area on Dec. 21.

The gifts were mostly given to those who participate in the organization’s Community Care Team program that is designed to help low-income individuals overcome barriers to care so their health and well being improves. Each year, employees pick a tag with the person’s age, gender and desired gift from “The Giving Tree.” Each gift is purchased, wrapped and readied for delivery.

“This is just one of several ways that AHCH helps members of our community who are in need,’’ said President and CEO Kenneth Albert. “ We recognize that it’s important for our organization to give back to the communities we serve, and our employees are always ready and willing to lend a hand.”

During the past year, AHCH began a special corporate citizenship program, collaborating with one nonprofit over 12 months. Employees selected the Trinity Jubilee Center, and the outpouring of support was overwhelming.

More than 10,000 diapers and a truckload of kitchen supplies were donated to the center. In addition, money was raised to sponsor one lunch a month and to cover some of the costs associated with the center’s free health clinic. AHCH staff served lunch at the center each month as well.

“I think it’s safe to say that our employees get as much as they give when it comes to helping out in our communities,’’ Albert said.

Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice employee Todd McKenna, left, assists Santa with the gifts that were delivered to families in need on Dec. 21.