March 29, 2024

Clarke County Toys for Christmas program underway

The annual Clarke County Toys for Christmas program began in 1969 when local attorney Larry VanWerden realized there would be children who would not have presents to open for the holidays.

Low-income families residing in Clarke County are eligible to apply for the program. Local public schools, agencies and organizations work together to ensure non-duplication of services. The program is entirely run by volunteers and financed by donations of new toys and clothes and cash contributions. There are no administrative costs to the program.

Volunteers shop and wrap the gifts and distribute them to approved families. Children through age 15 are served. Families can also receive a food voucher and a ham, turkey or pork loin which are all donated to the program. A major donation of $1,000 was received from the Wal-Mart Foundation this year.

Letters have already been sent to potentially eligible families who can decide if they wish to participate. If a family has not received an application and is in need of help, they can apply at the SCICAP Community Center by bringing proof of residency and verification of income for the past 90 days.

For many families, this is the only Christmas their children will have, and they are so appreciative.

Last week’s donors include:

Iowa TTT FZ, Torchbearer Kappa Chapter, Ruth Bethards, Osceola Lions Club, Glayne Adamson, Hopeville Ladies Auxillary, Liberty Ladies Aid, Slimming with Friends, Osceola United Methodist Church, Sarah Hettinger, Wal-Mart Foundation and donations were given in memory of Todd Pontier.

Further questions may be directed to Dianne Riley, Toys for Christmas Treasurer at 641-342-4681. The distribution will be Dec. 19 and 20 this year at the Senior Center in Osceola.