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Area's Giving Trees Ensure Hundreds of Kids Have a Bright Holiday

2024-12-07

During the holiday season, several organizations in Grant County are working hard to ensure that children don't go without gifts. The Silver City Elks Lodge No. 413 has been conducting its giving tree program for over a decade. This year, about 60 children from both the Silver and Cobre school districts will receive gifts. The schools select five students from each school, and parents fill out applications with information about the child. Ornaments with no names are placed on a tree in the lodge, and on December 21, there will be a breakfast with Santa where the children and families meet and receive their presents. The Elks receive a $7,000 grant from the Elks National Foundation and add another $2,000 - $3,000 from their own funds. Each child receives an average of $150 - $200 worth of gifts.The Western New Mexico University Child Development Center is also in the midst of its giving tree program. This year, there are about 80 children served by the center and their siblings, an increase from last year due to more therapists and expanded services. A second tree has been set up at Miller Library. Ornaments describe the holiday wants and needs of the children, and each ornament has four small removable cards with gift suggestions. All gifts should be brought, wrapped, to the center by December 20. The center also welcomes stocking stuffers for all ages.In Bayard, a toy drive is organized by Margie Estrada. This is the third year of the drive, and it aims to help children in the Mining District community. New and pre-owned toys in good condition, stockings, and individually wrapped goodies are being accepted. Items can be dropped off from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday at 104 Hurley Ave. The toys will be distributed on or before December 21.The Silver City Gospel Mission is not conducting an organized gift drive this year but welcomes donations of turkeys, foodstuffs, warm clothes, and other items for their less fortunate clients. They will be doing a Christmas box giveaway for holiday meals.These organizations are making a significant impact during the holiday season, bringing joy and hope to children in need.

"Spreading Holiday Cheer through Community Giving"

Silver City Elks Lodge's Giving Tree Program

The Silver City Elks Lodge's giving tree program is a long-standing tradition. For over a decade, they have been working to make Christmas special for local children. By collaborating with the school districts and gathering information from parents, they ensure that each child receives personalized gifts. The breakfast with Santa on December 21 is a highlight, where families come together to enjoy a homemade hot breakfast and receive their presents. This hands-on event allows the Elks members to directly contribute to the holiday joy of the community.

The $7,000 grant from the Elks National Foundation is a significant boost, but the members' additional contributions show their dedication. With an average of $150 - $200 worth of gifts per child, the Elks make a substantial difference in the lives of these children. It's heartwarming to see the smiles on their faces when they receive their presents.

Western New Mexico University Child Development Center's Giving Tree

The Western New Mexico University Child Development Center's giving tree program is expanding this year. With about 80 children and their siblings served, the center is reaching more families. The addition of a second tree at Miller Library provides more access for community members to participate. By describing the children's holiday wants and needs on the ornaments, it allows gift-givers to have a personal connection. The handmade clay ornaments as a gift of appreciation add a special touch.

The deadline for bringing wrapped gifts to the center by December 20 is crucial. The center also welcomes stocking stuffers of various items, showing the wide range of needs and interests of the children. The community's support last year has been gratefully received, and it enables the center to continue growing and providing happy holidays.

Bayard Toy Drive

The Bayard toy drive, in its third year, is focused on helping children in the Mining District community. Margie Estrada's efforts in accepting new and pre-owned toys in good condition, along with stockings and individually wrapped goodies, are making a difference. The drop-off hours from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday at 104 Hurley Ave. make it convenient for people to contribute. The distribution of toys on or before December 21 ensures that children have something special to open on Christmas morning.

This toy drive is not limited to specific children but welcomes any child in need. It shows the community's unity in coming together to support the younger generation during the holiday season.

SAN ANTONIO – On a memorable Saturday, the North Central Baptist Hospital was graced with a special visit. Santa Claus, accompanied by Mrs. Claus and the Grinch, made their way to the hospital in time for its 19th annual Winterfest holiday event. The air was filled with excitement as children eagerly frolicked in the artificial snow, their faces lighting up with joy as they had the opportunity to meet these beloved holiday figures. They also took turns riding the carnival rides, adding to the festive atmosphere. And of course, shopping for the holidays became a delightful experience for them. A significant portion of the proceeds from this event will be going to the Brighton Center, a remarkable nonprofit organization dedicated to serving San Antonio children with disabilities and developmental delays. This act of kindness not only brought smiles to the children's faces but also made a positive impact on their lives.

The Impact on the Brighton Center

The Brighton Center plays a crucial role in the community by providing essential support to San Antonio children facing various challenges. Through this partnership with the North Central Baptist Hospital, it opens up new avenues for these children to experience the magic of the holidays and receive much-needed assistance. The funds raised will help in expanding their services and reaching out to more children in need. It is a heartwarming collaboration that showcases the power of unity and giving during the holiday season.

The Brighton Center offers a wide range of programs and resources tailored to the specific needs of children with disabilities and developmental delays. From therapy sessions to educational support, they are committed to helping these children reach their full potential. The funds received from the Winterfest event will enable them to enhance these programs and provide even better care to the children.

In addition to the direct impact on the children, this collaboration also raises awareness about the importance of inclusive communities and the need for support for children with special needs. It serves as an inspiration for others to get involved and make a difference in the lives of these children.

The Magic of Meeting Santa and the Gang

For the children, meeting Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and the Grinch was a truly magical experience. The look of wonder and excitement on their faces as they approached these iconic holiday characters was priceless. Santa listened attentively to their wishes, making each child feel special and valued. Mrs. Claus offered warm hugs and words of encouragement, while the Grinch, with his unique charm, added an element of surprise and fun.

The children were able to share their dreams and hopes with Santa, who promised to do his best to make them come true. This interaction not only brought joy to the children but also instilled a sense of belief and hope in them. It was a moment that they will cherish forever.

The carnival rides provided an additional source of excitement, allowing the children to let loose and enjoy the festive spirit. The rides added a touch of adventure to the event, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone. Shopping for the holidays was also a highlight, as the children were able to choose gifts for their loved ones, learning the importance of giving during the holidays.

The Importance of Holiday Events for Children

Holiday events like the Winterfest at North Central Baptist Hospital hold great significance for children. They provide a break from the daily routine and offer an opportunity for them to come together, have fun, and create lasting memories. These events help in building a sense of community and belonging among the children.

During the holiday season, children often feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. Holiday events like this one allow them to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of the season, experiencing the joy and magic that comes with it. It helps in reducing stress and anxiety and promotes overall well-being.

Moreover, these events teach children important values such as kindness, generosity, and togetherness. They learn the importance of giving back and sharing with others, which will stay with them throughout their lives. It is through such experiences that children develop into compassionate and responsible individuals.

The holiday season brings with it a special responsibility for many, and for Culkin, it's all about stuffing those stockings with care. At 44 years old, he takes great pride in this annual task, considering himself a maestro or perhaps a master of stockings. Each year, he meticulously nails the stocking game, ensuring they are filled to the brim with delightful surprises.

Unlock the Secret to Perfect Holiday Stockings with Culkin

Stocking Filling Techniques

Culkin believes that the key to a successful stocking stuffing lies in having a diverse range of interests. By doing so, Amazon is able to understand his preferences even before he logs on. This allows him to discover unique treasures like a Zoltar fortune-telling machine, similar to the one featured in Big. His kooky taste often leads to unexpected finds that leave his loved ones in awe.

He shares an anecdote about when Song, 36, was amazed by a particular item and asked where he got it. Culkin's response, "I don't even know. I think it's from Switzerland?" showcases his ability to stumble upon hidden gems. This is a testament to his unique approach and the magic that comes with having a wide range of interests.

Personal Touch in Stocking Stuffing

Culkin's attention to detail is evident in every stocking he fills. He goes beyond simply filling them with random items; he puts thought and care into each selection. Whether it's a small trinket or a special treat, every item is chosen with the recipient in mind.

He explains that it's not just about the quantity of items but the quality and thoughtfulness that goes into it. This personal touch makes the stockings truly special and creates lasting memories for those who receive them. It's a tradition that he holds dear and takes great pride in.

The Joy of Holiday Stockings

For Culkin, the joy of holiday stockings goes beyond the act of filling them. It's about seeing the delight on the faces of his loved ones when they open them on Christmas morning. The anticipation and excitement are palpable as they discover the treasures inside.

He believes that holiday stockings have a special place in the hearts of everyone. They represent the spirit of the season and the love and care that goes into celebrating together. Culkin's dedication to this tradition is a reminder of the importance of small gestures and the impact they can have.