BASTROP, Texas (KXAN) – 1,647 homes were lost in the Bastrop wildfires. The McGinnis and Beasley families were among those burned out. They had no idea what was in store for them Friday.

They went to the Heart of the Pines volunteer firehouse for what they thought was an interview for the Today Show. Surprise!

In the next room, the entire fire department was waiting along with Walmart employees bearing gifts, lots of gifts.

Crystal McGinnis was overwhelmed, “This is the biggest Christmas and I guess it’s good it’s the biggest loss they ever had, so it’s wonderful, wonderful.”

Her daughter Katherine was just as surprised. “Oh yeah, I didn’t expect this, so big with everybody,” she said.

Patrick Beasley was just as surprised.

“There’s no words to describe how much this means to us and how much it’s going to help. It’s completely overwhelming,” he said.

The 24 brave souls on the Heart of the Pines fire department were not forgotten. Each volunteer was given a $1,000 Walmart gift card.

Chief Nathan Decker reflected back on the sacrifice the volunteers made.

“My guys are just unbelievable, the heart and spirit they put into this department,” he said. “I couldn’t ask for more out of them, they give every bit, 110 percent-plus.”

It’s been a difficult Autumn in Bastrop. But on Friday, Christmas came a little early.