More than 650 families are being sent to Disney World this year as part of Snowball Express, a program aimed at helping Gold Star families enjoy the holiday season.

The program, which started in 2006 but was launched just last year as part of the Gary Sinise Foundation, has 1,722 participants this year, according to an Instagram post.





“The holidays can be especially challenging for grieving families. Each December, we host a five-day experience for 1,750+ children of the fallen and their surviving parent or guardian,” the Gary Sinise Foundation said on its website . “As a therapeutic retreat with a blend of fun and inspiring programs, these families can lean on their peers for support.”



Over 1000 Gold Star Children travel w/ surviving parent, 1,750 in all, via @americanair to Disney World today as part of our @GarySiniseFound Snowball Express program. This charter left LAX this morning. I’ll join up in a few days. Have fun kids! We love you! pic.twitter.com/OfMEpVF1er — Gary Sinise (@GarySinise) December 8, 2018



Airports sending off these families, with some children as young as two and three years old, also got in the spirit over the weekend. Nashville International Airport held a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner at the gate where families were waiting to board the plane, and servicemembers stood at attention in the concourse.





Santa Claus was at the Killeen Airport, near Fort Hood, Texas, to welcome Snowball Express participants and meet with the families.

The National Air Traffic Controller Association also sent out tote bags all over the U.S. to Gold Star families participating in the Snowball Express.





Sinise is an actor known for his role as Lt. Dan in “Forrest Gump,” and his foundation is focused on serving and honoring “our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need.”