

Since 1981 the J.P. Hall, Sr. children's Charity has been giving away
toys at Christmas time. The first year, 75 children received toys
from the newly formed charity. Now, more that two decades later, more
than 2,500 children flock to the Clay County Fairgrounds each year
to benefit from the annual event.
Each year the Charity helps provide toys, clothing, food and other
Christmas goodies to Clay County families. The Christmas party, held
early in December, has made the holidays a special time for more than
30,000 children over the past two decades.
Just
one visit to the annual event is enough to know that the charity's
work is well received. Lines form well before daylight, usually making
it a long and sometimes cold wait. Once the children make it inside
the building, they are greeted by enthusiastic volunteers and the
sounds of holiday music. A visit from Santa Claus, a bag full of new
toys, the opportunity to choose a used toy, and a chance to take home
one of hundreds of donated bicycles, makes the day special for adults
and children alike. On the average, more than $50,000 is spent on
toys and volunteers work year-around to ensure that the party is a
success.
|
|