The Santa train has chugged through Appalachia for the past 56 years
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Train brings toys to poor in Appalachia
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KINGSPORT, Tennessee (CNN) -- Along certain railroad lines in rural Appalachia, the Christmas season officially kicks off with the slow chugging of an old-fashioned diesel train and a shower of presents.

For the last 56 years, the Santa train has brought free gifts and treats to children living in poor, rural counties of Kentucky, western Virginia and Tennessee.

CNN's Brian Cabell looks at the people who make this charitable train run possible and at the joy it brings to local children.