At a time when most kids are making out their wish lists, one Texoma girl is donating her presents to kids in need. Her giving spirit is encouraging those around her to also give, making Ashlyn Darby this week's Texoma's Treasure. 

It all started about three years ago on Ashlyn's 10th birthday. Her family's home caught fire and Ashlyn almost lost everything. Luckily, the Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department was able to put out the blaze and save christmas for her and her family.

"My presents were OK and afterward I thought about it and how blessed I was afterward how I have my Christmas and all my presents," Ashlyn said. 
 

While it wasn't an easy decision at first, Ashlyn realized she had more than enough and wanted to donate her birthday gifts to those less fortunate.     
 

"If you have something more than others you take advantage and when you give it away you see how happy it makes others, It makes you feel really good,"Ashlyn said.

"I think it is the most selfless thing I've ever seen.  I personally, even now, would have a hard time giving up my birthday presents so I think it is wonderful she would come up with something like this," said Ashlyn's mom Amy Thomas.

Since the Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department helped her family, Ashlyn decided to support their annual Operation Santa Claus. This is the third year Ashlyn has donated to the cause and what started as a personal contribution, has grown to an annual community event, and raised more than a thousand gifts.

"To see the smiles on these kids faces and the relief on the moms and dads that their kids are going to have a Christmas this year.  It was amazing," Thomas said.

Each year, hundreds apply for Operation Santa Claus.  With the current economy, this year, Ashlyn and her family say it's especially important to ensure every child has something to open under the tree.
 

"To help so many people and families have a Christmas they wouldn't have had unless you had done it, it's really fun," Ashlyn said.

Ashlyn's birthday is actually not until November 29th.  Although they've already celebrated her birthday with Ashlyn's Gift of Giving, It's still not too late to donate gifts to Operation Santa Claus.

Just bring an unwrapped toy for a boy or girl ages zero to 15 or a monetary donation to the Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department at 100 Peyton Drive. Some Burkburnett businesses will also have drop boxes later in the week.

If you'd like to refer a child for Operation Santa Claus, you can pick up applications at the Burkburnett City Hall or call (940) 569-2215.

Gifts will be delivered Saturday December 19th.