DHS Christmas programs bring holiday cheer
by Peter Jakey, Managing Editor
Children shouldn?t have to do without presents at Christmas, which is why so many people step forward to help others this time of year — despite the financial hardships that many county residents are experiencing. There are many individuals who have made a difference for children and families during the 2010 holiday season, as well as many businesses and organizations. ?We started this project in November,? said Carrie Badgero, Presque Isle County?s Department of Human Services (DHS), community services coordinator. ?People in the community send in names when there is a need for Christmas gifts.?
ANGEL TREES with the names of children and the gifts they would like to receive for Christmas were located at the Presque Isle County Courthouse, McLean Pharmacy and Tendercare/Rogers City Rehabilitation Hospital.
?And we have several private donors, who contribute gifts,? said Badgero. ?The outpouring of gifts from the citizens of Rogers City has been amazing. We have about 150 Christmas gifts this year.?
Also getting involved are several women from the Dancing Hippopotamus arts and crafts show in Bearinger Township. The ladies made handcrafted angels and sold them at the St. Ignatius Catholic Church craft show, as well as Glen?s Market. One hundred percent of the proceeds were used to purchase Christmas gifts. ?We made 100,? said Gale Phelps. ?All
The core group was Phelps, Karen Silver and Irene Seelye. ?We had a wonderful time making these,? said Phelps. ?They put in so many hours making the angels for us,? said Badgero. ?That was a big boost to the project, as well.? ROGERS CITY High School?s National Honor Society annually is involved in the program, and this year the organization pulled together food and hygiene baskets. The Girl Scouts of Presque Isle County also donated hygiene baskets.
Basel Oil?s Marathon Station had a Toys for Tots box, while the Red Hat Society and Democratic Party adopted families. ?There was a great outpouring of support,? said Badgero. The families will be picking up the gifts Friday and Monday. Many of the most vulnerable residents of the community will experience the true meaning of the holiday spirit thanks to the generosity of the residents of Presque Isle County. Charitable donations are accepted throughout the year. Please call DHS at 989-734-2153.