For some children in Elbert County, Christmas came early this
year. And with out the help of a local foundation, Christmas may
not have come at all.
On Dec. 19 pick-up trucks filled to the brim with toys and
clothing traveled to all parts of the county delivering to families
in need. Children answered their doors with wide eyes and smiles as
gifts were handed over from a fellow community member.
For years, the Christmas for Kids program has provided holiday
cheer to local families. The foundation behind the program is the
Elizabeth Fire Fighter Community Foundation, a group of people
dedicating their time to the needs of others. But the success of
Christmas for Kids would not be possible with out the help of other
programs and groups.
Kara Gerczynski, public relations representative for the
foundation, said this year the Marine’s Toys for Tots program and
Our Lady of the Visitation Catholic Church provided all of the toys
allowing the foundation to provide other items for the kids.
“This year we worked to get all the kids a winter jacket,” she
said. “We also got pants, shirts, gloves and hats for the
kids.”
The year the program provided 185 children with toys and clothes
helping out 74 families. Gerczynski said the number grew this year
and a variety of walks of life applied for the program.
“I think because people are losing their jobs, they don’t have
the money to extend themselves for Christmas this year. They just
want to keep their house,” she said. “I have seen a lot of new
names this year.”
The foundation’s annual chili dinner in October is the primary
fundraiser for Christmas for Kids. Gerczynski admits she was a
little worried about how much money would be raised, but in the end
$4000 was enough.
“I wasn’t sure how much the businesses would be able to help
this year because times are tough on the businesses,” she said.
“But they really came through and donated what we needed.”
Even though the Elizabeth Fire Fighter Community Foundation
provided the program, Gerczynski said Christmas for Kids would not
be possible without the Elizabeth Fire Department’s support. All of
the toys and clothing is stored in the department allowing the
foundation to have a safe place to keep the gifts.
“This is something our fire fighters love and the department and
chief really support what we do,” she said. “This program has grown
so much over the years and now people who need help know exactly
where to go.”
For more information on the Elizabeth Fire Fighter Community
Foundation visit www.elizabethfire.com.
