By Betty Gandee
With the holiday season upon us, the hustle and bustle of family dinners and gift giving can sometimes make us forget that ‘tis the season for giving. There are many that need a little extra support during the holidays, and local groups look upon the community to help in that cause. The Lizemore Volunteer Fire Department is once again taking up donations of new toys as part of its annual toy drive.
The LVFD has been handing out toys to the youth of Clay County periodically for six years, partnering with the Dixie Dollar General for the past two years. Christian Elliott says that she believes it is important for the fire department to give back to the community because they do so much for them. They do this every year so the children in the community that may not receive gifts from their family can have a little something to open on Christmas morning. She says, “Times are tough, with most parents having to work more than one job just to feed their family. Our goal is to lighten the load.” You can drop off your new toy at Dixie Dollar General and the VFD will wrap and distribute your gift to a child in need.
In previous years the department has helped make Christmas special for 40 children. They are extending their goal to 60 this year and know that that with the communities help and support they can meet and exceed this goal.
Christina Belt, VISTA worker with H.E. White Elementary, will be collecting canned food and other non-perishable food items to be distributed to H.E. White students and their families throughout the holiday season. Christina says that this food drive is important to lend a helping hand to those who may be down on their luck and she hopes to reach all the students and their families that attend H.E. White. You can drop off your donations from November 5 through January 4 at the Family Dollar in Clay and in Clendenin.