Christmas Is For Kids drive officially underway

Todd Humphries (right) Junior Warden of the Gaffney Masonic Lodge 186 presents a $1,250 check for "Christmas Is For Kids" to Ledger Publisher Cody Sossamon. The annual fund drive to provide Christmas gifts for disadvantaged children begins each year at Thanksgiving. The Gaffney Ledger will mark the holiday season beginning Friday with the official launch of its annual fundraiser, "Christmas Is For Kids."

Donations from county residents allowed 140 children to enjoy a better Christmas in 2007.

The Gaffney Ledger is now accepting donations for this year's fundraiser.

For every $100 donated, a child will have the opportunity to go on a shopping spree on Saturday, Dec. 20, at Wal- Mart to select the toys and clothes he or she wants for Christmas.

Children are chosen to participate by the Department of Social Services, the Salvation Army and the Cherokee County Disabilities and Special Needs Board. Children receive help in making their Christmas gift selections from members of the Altrusa Club and Sub Deb of Gaffney, a community service organization for high school girls.

The Gaffney Ledger began the "Christmas Is For Kids" fundraiser in 1989 so underprivileged children would not go without Christmas gifts. Since that time, the fundraiser has helped more than 1,700 children in Cherokee County have a merrier holiday season.

Donations in any amount can be given to "Christmas Is For Kids." All donations are tax deductible.

Contributions can be brought by The Gaffney Ledger at 1604 W. Floyd Baker Blvd.; or mailed to The Gaffney Ledger, P.O. Box 670, Gaffney, S.C. 29342.