Help give children Christmas

Published 4:55 am Wednesday, October 26, 2016

The push is now on to make Christmas bright for hundreds of Brewton area children and elderly residents.

The Christmas Project is in its 31st year of providing holiday gifts for local residents who may not otherwise have Christmas.

Stephanie Walker with the area’s program said the program benefits children age 3-14 from Brewton, East Brewton and Flomaton areas by providing clothing and toys for the holiday season, as well a number of elderly residents.

In year’s past, more than 300 angels were up for adoption at the Brewton Walmart angel tree. Traditionally, members of the Brewton Kiwanis and Sportsman clubs adopt hundreds of additional children; however, donations to the program help provide for angels.

The program’s initial fundraising effort is ongoing now.

“Donations are always most appreciated,” Walker said. “Without these contributions, many would not have those presents under the tree each year.

“For those wishing to adopt an angel, in the interest of fairness, we ask that you spend at least $80 on each child with a toy as one of the purchases. We will provide you with the age and sizes of the child in November.

“Then, we will really, really need help with purchasing toys for children who are six or older,” she said. “Everyone wants to buy a baby doll or a basketball, but it would benefit the program so much more, if people could buy toys for the older children.”

Each child is provided with new clothes, a new book and a toy as part of the program.

“We want to make sure that the children go back to school at the New Year with new clothes and a great feeling,” Walker said. “In September, we sent out letters asking for donations from the local community. People are very generous. We use that money to purchase the clothes.”

Those wishing to adopt a senior this holiday season is asked to spend at least $50 per person. Ages and sizes will be released in November, Walker said.

Donations can be dropped off at the Brewton Chamber of Commerce on Douglas Avenue or mailed to The Christmas Project, 1010-B Douglas Avenue, Brewton, AL 36426.

For more information about becoming a volunteer or making a donation, contact Walker at 251-236-0733.