Donated toys gather under Sharon Hall’s Christmas tree to be distributed to 125 children in time for Christmas.
An estimated 125 children received Christmas gifts thanks to an outgrowth of the Facebook page Centralia and Surrounding Area in Need.
Sharon Hall says the page allows those in need to make posts which are often answered by others who can meet the need. When Christmas time approached, many expressed concerns about not being able to provide presents for their children. Hall’s earlier work at the Salvation Army made her the perfect organizer.
“It just kind of grew out of that where someone said they needed help with Christmas and someone else said ‘I can help.’ In literally one week, we have taken care of 125 kids. It’s just been amazing. The community, as usual, Centralia and the surrounding community, have stepped up and gotten all these kids taken care of. It’s been such a blessing.”
Hall says many items were just left at her home.
“The packages got put together by me and my sister Rhonda. We were working in my living room, which isn’t a very big space. I’ve had over 25 different donors, at least, that have brought me stuff. I have come home and found stuff sitting there and I don’t even know who brought it,” said Hall.
Eventually, a tent was set up outside to gather items. Hall says many of those involved would like to participate in the event again, but start earlier and coordinate with other groups helping to provide Christmas. If anyone is interested in joining the effort, they can reach out to Sharon Hall on her Facebook page.
