FAIRMONT – The Marion County Christmas Toy Store is gearing up once again to make sure kids have presents this year.
Last year, the volunteer organization provided more than 800 children with toys, books and stockings for Christmas morning.
“It is often said that it takes a village and, once again, it is true. A sense of community is created when people are kind to those who need help. Now more than ever let’s show this kindness with generosity and make sure to put a smile on our children’s faces”, says a statement from the organization.
The Marion County Board of Education has been instrumental in identifying families for distribution, and the Marion County Commission has offered storage and labor each year. There is also a group of volunteers who return each year to help out as the community donates.
The Greater Fairmont Council of Churches also gets involved every year. As in the past, organizers will thank those who have donated and recognize the community’s efforts.
Marion County Schools Administrative Assistant for Transportation and Technology Chad Norman said each year, the Christmas Toy Shop touches families across the county, benefiting students at all grade levels.
“These are our students helping each other and helping their peers,” Norman said. “It’s important for students in Marion County to give and help each other. We are certainly happy and proud to have such generosity and citizenship. It certainly addresses all the pillars of character education,” Norman said.
Sharon Burrows, a key volunteer since its inception, said the Christmas Toy Shop is now in its 14th year. He said it is a rewarding experience to be involved.
Several donations have already arrived, but more are needed because the price of toys has increased over a year ago. The toy store will be open Saturday, December 3rd from 11am to 3pm at the Marion County Election Center on the East Side.
Janet Chittum, who has volunteered at every event, said she looks forward to the toy store every year and wouldn’t miss it for the world. His children are now grown and volunteering is for him this Christmas.
There are ways to help:
• Donate money: A financial donation will allow the committee to purchase toys at a reduced price from local businesses. 100% of all donations go towards the purchase of toys. Please consider donating, making a collection, or hosting a fundraiser (make all checks payable to Marion County Christmas Toy Store). We are also a tax exempt organization and will provide you with a receipt for your donation.
Donations can be made to the Christmas Toy Store and mailed to 924 Sylvan Ave., Fairmont, WV 26554.
• Volunteering – The Christmas Toy Shop would not be possible without the help of many volunteers! Consider volunteering to sort toys before the event.
If people are looking to help and volunteer with anything from ordering, shopping or assisting shoppers, they can call Janet Chittum at 304-534-0700 or Sharon Burrows at 304-657-6853.