United Way of Wells County opens applications for Christmas gift help
By SYDNEY KENT
As seasonal snacks, decorations, and neatly-packaged gifts begin to line the shelves, some families are filled with dread at the impending financial stress. Christmas can often be more of a burden than a blessing for those who struggle to make ends meet between paychecks.
For many years, United Way of Wells County has worked to help bring Christmas gifts to the thousands of children and their families facing financial hardship during the holiday season. The nonprofit does this through their annual Santa’s Workshop toy drive.
The United Way is taking applications until Wednesday, Dec. 1. Applications can be filled out at the Wells County Food Bank and at 122 Lamar St, Suite 118 in Bluffton.
Each participating family receives toys for children up to age 12, at no cost to them. Executive Director Ben Renkenberger said the program would not be possible without community involvement. Donations of new, unwrapped toys are currently needed.
The Faith Fund’s Lisa Eubank, along with Renkenberger, explained the process behind the annual tradition Wednesday afternoon.
“After we receive the gifts, volunteers come together to organize and sort them,” Renkenberger said, pointing to a storage room that currently has a few stacks of new toys. “They form a sort of workshop as they put together the packages for families in need.”
“Each family has a dedicated amount of gifts,” Eubank added. “Children receive at least two ‘main’ gifts along with some smaller ones. I then send out a postcard to the families to pick up their presents on a specific date and time frame for them to give to their kids on Christmas.”
“This tradition truly embodies what we do,” Renkenberger said. “We’re all about helping kids and families in our community in their time of need.”
Renkenberger said anyone who would like to donate a toy should bring the items to the United Way office in Bluffton between 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please call the United Way office at (260) 824-5589 if an appointment is needed. Donations should be dropped off before Monday, Dec. 1.
“Throughout the years, our community has consistently demonstrated their commitment to helping those in need through this program,” Renkenberger finished. “As we begin on our annual toy drive, we’re confident that generosity will be at the forefront of our hearts, and Wells County will once again step up and make this holiday season brighter for all. Your continued support and compassion are the true gifts that bless our neighbors during this special time of year.”
sydney@news-banner.com
