Boys & Girls Club needs your help to make Christmas party merry
By JOE L.HUGHES II Ledger Staff Writer joe@gaffneyledger.com

The Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club is hoping the community will lend a helping hand to make the holidays brighter for local youngsters.

The organization is seeking donations of money and/or toys for about 170 children who are expected to attend the group's annual Christmas party later this month.

The initial gift drive was held last year when a former board member organized a party and asked people to bring unwrapped gifts.

"Seeing all those kids' faces makes everything worthwhile," Boys & Girls Club Director Vance Hammond said. "They are something special - not just on Christmas - but every day, and we strive to make them feel that way."

With that party, a tradition was born. And with the growth of the local club comes an increased need for donations.

"With us expanding our services it has caused the number of children under our umbrella to rise," Hammond said.

At the moment, Hammond estimates there are enough donations to provide gifts for 80 children, far below the organization's goal. With a little less than two weeks left in the drive, Hammond is confident all children at the BGC will leave with grins from ear to ear.

"These kids are special, and we believe the goal will be accomplished," Hammond said. "Our organization served more than 300 people Thanksgiving dinner last month. That many people illustrates not only our growth, but also a new goal we believe can be reached."

If you would like to help, donations of toys and/or cash can be left at the Cherokee County School District office or at the Boys & Girls Club. For more information, call Hammond at 487-3472.