This article was originally published on Dec. 14, 2023 , in the McCookGazette
McCOOK, Neb. - The McCook community is coming together to spread joy and generosity this holiday season as the Southwest Nebraska Family Resource Center collaborates with local businesses for their annual Tree of Love event. With a history spanning almost two decades, Kathy Haas, the center's director, has tirelessly worked alongside community organizations to ensure the success of the Tree of Love initiative
The Trees are decorated with tags representing different families and can be spotted at various locations in the city. Each tag provides specific details about a local family in need during the holidays, including the ages of their children, clothing, and shoe sizes, and their specific gift requests. Community members are encouraged to choose a tag, purchase the requested items, and return them to the original location.
Starting in November, families in need provided verifiable proof of government aid to apply for assistance. This year, it is expected that around 160 families will benefit from the program, similar to previous years.
To support the distribution of gifts, the Family Resource Center organized an annual gift basket fundraiser, generating a profit of $1,500. This amount will contribute to the purchase of gifts. Additionally, upcoming fundraising events such as the one at Pizza Hut on December 14 and a basketball game between students and teachers at McCook Senior High on December 19 will also benefit the center.
Cassidy Vontz, while browsing the tags in the First National Bank lobby, shared that she and her coworkers at Farm Credit Services of America choose to contribute collectively and shop for a larger family instead of doing a gift exchange.
Haas expressed her gratitude, saying, "Every year I have tears, more than once, from seeing the generosity of people, either those who buy gifts for a family or those who donate cash." Often due to last-minute cash donations, they can ensure that every applying family receives their gifts.
The collaboration between the McCook Family Resource Center and local businesses not only facilitates donations but also fosters unity and collective responsibility within the community. It serves as a reminder that in difficult times, coming together and supporting one another can bring about positive change and uplift those who need it the most. The partnering businesses and organizations include Anytime Fitness, Aphrodite Hair Salon, E Free Church, First Central Bank, First Interstate Bank, Midwest Liberty Credit Union, Peace Lutheran Church, St. Patrick's Catholic School & CYO, and the YMCA.
As gifts are gathered, the McCook Family Resource Center anticipates making a significant impact. Families in need will experience the joyous surprise of a brighter holiday season, made possible by the compassion and generosity of their community members. For those who wish to participate, there is still time to visit the partnering businesses, choose a tag from the Tree of Love, and make a difference in the lives of those in need this Christmas.
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