In the heart of Putnam County, West Virginia, a heartwarming initiative is underway to ensure that every child experiences the magic of the holiday season. The "Christmas Blessings Bag" program, spearheaded by the city of Hurricane, is rallying the community to come together and provide gifts and essential items for hundreds of local children in need.

Bringing Joy and Comfort to Underprivileged Children this Christmas

Answering the Call for Sponsors

The "Christmas Blessings Bag" program is facing a significant challenge this year, with approximately 450 children in Putnam County in need of presents. Hurricane Mayor Scott Edwards is appealing to the community to step up and sponsor these children, ensuring that no child is left without a gift to open on Christmas morning. The program relies on generous individuals and organizations to sign up as sponsors, taking on the responsibility of shopping for and providing gifts for a specific child.

Businesses and Community Groups Stepping Up

Local businesses and community groups are heeding the call to action. Joshua Webb, the president of Putnam United FC, has mobilized his soccer organization to sponsor multiple children. "JW soccer LLC are sponsoring two children, and our club are also sponsoring one boy and one girl," Webb shared. The Culloden Volunteer Fire Department has also stepped up, with Deputy Chief Kaleb French explaining, "We're on calls all over the place, whether it's Hurricane, or Teays Valley, or we've even went to Nitro before, and we run a lot with Hurricane, so you know we wanted to help out."

More Than Just Toys

The "Christmas Blessings Bag" program goes beyond just providing toys and gifts. Each child's box also includes a box of food, a $10 McDonald's gift card, and a stocking filled with essential items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and gloves. Mayor Edwards emphasizes the importance of ensuring that each child receives everything they need, stating, "We check the list twice to make sure each kid gets everything they deserve."

Deadline for Sponsorship

The deadline for sponsoring a child in the "Christmas Blessings Bag" program is quickly approaching. Individuals and organizations interested in becoming sponsors have until December 11th and 12th, which are the designated parent pick-up days. Mayor Edwards encourages the community to act quickly, as dozens of children are still in need of sponsors.

A Community Coming Together

The "Christmas Blessings Bag" program is a testament to the generosity and compassion of the Putnam County community. By coming together to support underprivileged children, the program not only provides material gifts but also instills a sense of hope and belonging. As the holiday season approaches, the city of Hurricane and its residents are determined to ensure that every child in Putnam County experiences the joy and magic of Christmas.