LeMoyne Center seeks donations for community Christmas party
Guests check out the variety of toys that were donated for Coco’s Christmas last year at the LeMoyne Community Center. This year’s holiday celebration will be held Dec. 16.
Observer-Reporter
Observer-Reporter
Joyce Ellis, executive director of the LeMoyne Community Center, directs traffic through a room of toys at Coco’s Christmas.
Coco, dressed as a snowman, gets a moment to rest during last year’s Coco’s Christmas.
Coco, once again, is “begging” for the community’s help this holiday season on behalf of the LeMoyne Community Center.
The furry mascot is getting ready for Coco’s Christmas, an event designed to help make the season a little brighter for working families experiencing financial hardship. The party will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Dec. 16 at the center, 200 N. Forrest Ave., Washington.
The first celebration in 2014 helped 400 people. Last year, the center provided free gifts and food to more than 1,000 people who might otherwise have had little or nothing at Christmas.
To make the celebration even more joyous this year for more families, the center is seeking donations of new clothes, toys, coats, hats and gloves, plus very, very gently used toys, housewares and appliances. Gift cards of any type also are appreciated. All donations are tax deductible.
Gifts for teens would be particularly appreciated.
A free holiday meal once again will be provided, and Nazareth Baptist Church will hold a diaper giveaway. Free gift-wrapping will be available.
Families are encouraged to arrive early and bring bags to carry home their gifts. Cookies and hot cocoa will be served to those waiting in line.
The community celebration is the brainchild of Joyce Ellis, executive director of the LeMoyne Community Center, and is named in honor of her dog.
In addition, volunteers are needed to assist with collecting and sorting donated items, as well as to provide drop-off and storage sites.
Setup will be held Dec. 14, and all items must be delivered to the LeMoyne Center that day.
For additional information, call 724-228-0260 or email thelmcc1956@gmail.com.