LINCOLNTON––Christian Ministry’s annual Christmas sign-up process is now well under way.
That’s the word this week from executive director Mitzi Williams. At this time of year, Williams noted, when most people rejoice in abundance, there’s no good reason that some folks should have to struggle.
“I am asking for our churches––and anyone that can––to let their congregations know that our Christmas ministry is here to help,” she said. “It is not just toys for 14-year-olds and under. It is also a wheelbarrow full of food for families that need it!”
It is very easy to sign up for the requisite interview process, as Williams observed. Check out the Website at www.christianministryoflincolncounty.org/how-to-receive-christmas.
“It’s even easier to pick up,” she added. “Just drive by, and we will put your food and toys in your car. No getting out; no standing in line!
“Lincoln County is a caring community,” she continued. “There is no reason to struggle to have enough food in your home. There is no reason for a child to want a toy and not have it. Come let us help!”
Signing up Christmas clients means a lot of hard work for the ministry.
“We are very busy,” said Williams, “and we need your support.”
Right now, until Dec. 22, the ministry is taking applications for Christmas food and toys. Williams also cited some more upcoming important dates at the ministry. This includes the toy giveaway, Dec. 3, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
“We are accepting all used or new toys,” she added.
The ministry is collecting toys until Dec. 9. And during this same period, small groups of volunteers are needed to help sort school food. The ministry is collecting food until Dec. 16. The Christmas food and toy distribution is Dec. 23.
In other news, the soup kitchen needs instant mashed potatoes, green beans, chicken broth, turkey broth and bread crumbs.
The ministry will be closed Nov. 24 and 25 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.
However, as Williams emphasized, “The soup kitchen will remain open during the holidays, thanks to our wonderful volunteers.”
Talking of which, if you’re interested in volunteering in any of the ministry’s many capacities, Williams encourages you to call Woody Saunders at (704) 488-8824.
Got donations? Drop them off at the ministry’s downtown Lincolnton offices, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
And speaking of such contributions, donations to help defray the costs of ministry efforts are always welcome. Send your e-mails to [email protected] if your donation is in honor or memory of someone, along with the name/address of who to notify.
You may also mail your donations to:
Christian Ministry of Lincoln County
P.O. Box 423
Lincolnton, N.C. 28093.
Williams also cited the ministry’s satellite offices.
McKendree United Methodist Church, located at 3537 Maiden Hwy., just outside of Lincolnton, is open on the second Saturday of each month, 10 a.m.-noon, and on the second Thursday, 5-7 p.m. And Hull’s Grove Baptist, at 6670 NC-27 West in Vale, is open monthly on the first Saturday, 9-11 a.m. Clients may sign up for Christmas help at these satellite offices. But the give-out day of Friday, Dec. 23, will be at Christian Ministry only.
Located at 207 S. Poplar St. in Lincolnton, Christian Ministry of Lincoln County is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Call (704) 732-0383 to learn more.
