MOUNT VERNON — During a Christmas season when many families are struggling to put food on the table and keep utilities turned on, Mount Vernon firefighters are lending Santa a hand again this year, to ensure a happy holiday for Mount Vernon children in need.
Joy Harris, executive director of Interchurch Social Services, said the increased need among Knox County residents this year is evident to her staff each month as they fill requests for food from the Interchurch pantry.
“At the end of 2007 we were averaging 359 requests a month for food from the pantry,” Harris said.
This year, she said, that average had jumped to 421 requests a month by the end of October.
“That just sort of shows the increase in need,” Harris said. “Many of the people who use the pantry are using their available dollars to pay utilities.”
Harris said that does not leave any discretionary income for things like toys for Christmas.
Realizing the need, members of the Mount Vernon Fire Department have once again pitched in this year to organize a toy drive this year to benefit local families.
“This is our fourth year for our toy drive, Mount Vernon Firefighters Christmas for Kids, in conjunction with Interchurch Social Services Turn the Tide Program,” said Fire Chief Shawn Christy.
Last year around 600 children from 237 families received toys through the program. Firefighters collect new, unwrapped toys and cash donations, and Interchurch takes care of the distribution.
Helping the community in its time of need is something firefighters know all about. Christy said the firefighters particularly enjoy helping in this way.
“I love this time of year to be able to see the expression on a parent’s face to know those children will be able to get something nice for Christmas,” Christy said. “We have seen this continue to grow year after year. This year is tough on all families in our county.
“I am really impressed with the outpouring of this community to open its hearts and its pocket books to give to children in tough circumstances.”
Toys and cash donations can be dropped off at the Mount Vernon firehouse on West Gambier Street anytime, or at any CES Credit Union during business hours.
“CES Credit Union, Ariel Corp., The Eagle 93.7 and 1300 WMVO, and the Mount Vernon News; those have been the base ever since we started,” Christy said. “We have continued to see the support from our businesses in our community, but it’s the individuals who step up who make a difference, too.
“If everyone picks up just one extra toy when they go shopping, it makes such a big difference.
The deadline for dropping off toys is Dec. 15. At that time, the firefighters will take what money has been raised to purchase enough toys for all age groups, filling in any voids.
Harris said toys and gifts for older children and teens who may otherwise be left out, are especially appreciated. She said movie passes, fast food certificates and gift cards can brighten the holiday for older children.
She said family gifts such as board games which encourage families to spend time together are also needed.
