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It’s been ten years since the Princess Angels program began, and 2021 is its biggest year yet.

To ensure no child goes without on Christmas morning, Zaxby’s consultant Danica “Princess” King is prepping toys, clothes, and other items for 41 kids between the ages of 18 months to 17 years. This year, a total of $2,352 was raised for the project – all of which matched by Under His Wings LLC/Zaxby’s.

“It’s about giving back to the community and helping those who really need it,” King said. “The older kids asked for things like shaving sets, cologne for the guys. The girls asked for purses, makeup. We try to get an outfit or two for everyone, along with socks, underwear and personal hygiene products.”

On top of private donations, the Zaxby’s restaurant in Nicholasville keeps two piggy-banks, a “Princess Pig” and a “Princess Chicken,” in the office. Employees tend to donate a portion of their paychecks or tips from the tip jar.

“It’s our biggest year yet,” said Sandy Adams, owner of Zaxby’s locations in Nicholasville, Richmond, Danville, and Frankfort. “I want to teach our employees about giving back. It’s not always about yourself, it’s also about helping others. We want to do it again next year and I pray there will be even more donations.”

Adams explains that Princess Angels is an effort King puts together 365 days a year. King’s shopping starts the beginning of January and continues throughout the year. To stay on-budget, she’s always watching out for sales and clearances. Black Friday in particular is a huge undertaking for the program each year.

“This year I started Black Friday shopping at 4:45 a.m. and didn’t get home until 7 that night,” King said. “My close friends and family helped out, taking shifts to make sure I have a bodyguard.”

Names of students in need are given to Princess Angels by the Youth Service Centers throughout all Jessamine County Schools. Additionally, the Salvation Army shares with Princess Angels names listed on their Angel Tree. Over the past decade, Princess Angels has helped a total of 257 Jessamine County children.

“She [King] has the most giving heart,” Adams said. “There are a lot of kids who need help in Jessamine County. In 2011, Princess Angels helped 13 children, and it’s gotten bigger every year.”