Marion County DSS officials launch Christmas Project

Each year the Marion County Department of Social Services sponsors a Christmas Project.
Committee members James Washington III, Allison Johnson, Margaret Brunson, Sherry Richardson, Martha Stackhouse, Sylvia Rogers and DSS Director Cora H. David held a meeting this past week to discuss the “Christmas Stocking Project,” which gives individuals, churches, business and organizations the opportunity to brighten the holiday season for the numerous children, low income families and elderly served by the agency.

“We have to really devote time above and beyond our regular job duties to help serve our kids in the county with toys for Christmas,” David said, adding foster children are special to the project.

Participation from sponsors is vital, she said, adding that schools, churches, including Wal-Mart have helped in the past along with individuals and organization in providing gifts and monetary contributions.

Committee members said they would like everyone to gain interest in either sponsoring children or families. Items needed are toys, educational toys, games, jewelry, gift cards, clothing, shoes, bicycles, toiletries, monetary gifts and various balls. All contributions and donations are also tax deductible.

Committee’s have been organizing the project for the past 20 years. Members said there are a total of 52 children in foster care in the county.

In 2008, 164 children were served in the project, Washington said.

Children in protective service are also included along with the elderly. Members, said blankets, linen, canned goods, socks, gloves and hats are ideas gifts also, David said. “We would love for the community to help us,” she said. Children from newborns to 19-year olds are aided during the holiday season.

The committee began meeting in September and has put together a wish list and will begin gathering items on Dec. 1.
“The process is very organized and streamlined pretty easy,” Washington said.

All gifts and food that are to be distributed must be delivered to the office at the Beeson Building located at 137 Airport Court, Suite A, Mullins, SC 29574 no later than 5 p.m. Dec. 12. Staff will be able to make a scheduled pick-up if needed.

To confirm participation call 843-423-4623 ext 155.