Three local outreach programs that provide toy assistance for Gilmer County families in need have already begun, or will soon begin, their application processes heading toward Christmas.
Altogether, the Ellijay Lions Club’s White Christmas program, Gilmer Toys for Tots and Gilmer Family Connection’s Christmas Campaign often reach well over 1,000 local children in a given year.
All three programs are funded mostly by donations from the local community. All three also use Charity Tracker, a database program that keeps track of families who receive assistance and ensures each family doesn’t apply for more than one of the programs.
Sign-up details for the local 2021 Christmas assistance programs are as follows:
Lions Club White Christmas
Applications will be taken in person Saturday, Dec. 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Ellijay Lions Club, 1729 South Main Street. Toys will be distributed the third weekend of December. On the sign-up day, White Christmas applicants must bring a Social Security Card for each child and proof of residency.
Gilmer Toys for Tots
Applications are currently being taken and will be accepted until Friday, Dec. 17, at Faith, Hope and Charity Recycle Store, 449 Industrial Boulevard, Suite 120, and the Gilmer County Department of Family and Children’s Services, 222 Highland Crossing, Suite 100. Applications can also be picked up and turned in anytime in a dropbox at the local Toys for Tots headquarters, 941 Progress Road. Weekly toy distribution will take place Mondays through Dec. 20.
Family Connection Christmas Campaign
Applications are currently being taken and will be accepted until Monday, Dec. 13, at the Larry Walker Education Center, 1860 South Main Street. Applications are available inside the center’s double doors, and from counselors at all Gilmer County schools. All gifts will be handed out by Dec. 17.