ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Families and runners participated in Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital’s 37th annual Jingle Bell Jog, with all proceeds benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network at Phoebe.

The event featured 5K, 10K and 1-mile runs, drawing participants from across the community. According to Hillary Murphy, a philanthropy officer at Phoebe Foundation, the Jingle Bell Jog serves as the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year.

“Oh, it’s so important. It’s our major fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Network at Phoebe, and we support all of our NICU kids, the E.R., physical therapy, and occupational therapy and we just appreciate everyone who comes out to support these efforts,” Murphy said.

This year’s event included Jingle Junction, a new addition featuring a hot chocolate station and face painting designed to make the race more interactive for families.

“Oh, it’s wonderful, and we appreciate everyone and so many of the families that come actually have NICU graduates and children that attend our physical therapy. So, we love it,” Murphy said.

Boyd Saunders, one of the participants, said he was pleased with the community turnout for the cause.

“That’s right. Wonderful. We love to, uh, you know, support anything that’s going to go to the Children’s Miracle Network. The of course, Phoebe NICU is a wonderful cause. I’m glad to see such a turnout this morning,” Saunders said.

The event proceeded despite challenging weather conditions, allowing participants to celebrate the holidays while supporting local healthcare services for children.

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