You can help Santa with his work
100 more children need help this year
Wanda English Burnett - Editor

Although the need is great and already over 100 more children are in need of Christmas presents than last year's list, Sheryle Pickett of the Ripley County Division of Family and Children, is not in a panic. "People always come through," she noted on Monday of this week as she explained that the numbers were up from last year.

Each year, Pickett is in charge of a program that allows families in Ripley County to have a little more cheer at Christmas. Families in need are matched with "Santas" and the fun begins.

This year so far there are 358 children in need, representing 152 families. Last year at this time there were 242 children representing 87 families. "I believe the numbers are greater this year due to the economy, gas prices etc.," Pickett noted.

So far 12 of the 17 "Santas" from last year have signed on and Pickett has faith that more will come forward.

Who can be a Santa? Anyone - is the answer. Any group, organization, individual, business, can make a child happy this year. "There is absolutely no minimum," Pickett stated. Anyone or any group can give one gift or many. The lists includes things that children need as well as toys and things they would just like to have. Last year families received everything including food, personal hygiene items, gifts, cleaning supplies, even gift certificates for hair cuts.

How do I become a Santa? It's simple. Just give Pickett a call at 689-6295 or stop by the DFC on US 421 in Versailles.

The deadline for those in need to fill out an application is December 1. Christmas Gift Request forms are available at the DFC Office in Versailles located at 630 S. Adams Street US 421. Their hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Wednesdays from 7:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. After an application is completed, those receiving help will be sent a letter telling them where and when to pick up their goodies.

"All help is appreciated," noted Pickett, who concluded by saying, "No one on the list went without last year, and I don't anticipate having a problem getting enough Santas this year either."