During the holidays I am usually at every munch or gathering in the area raffling off different toys I have made to raise money to help families in our local community. For whatever the reason that caused these families to struggle; we as a community stepped in to help. Over the years the money was used for many things. It paid for a car to be fixed, past due rent, groceries, utility bills, doctor bills, Santa for the children, and even a funeral. Whatever the need was that year for those families, we were there to help. To avoid embarrassment or shame, I have never shared who the families were or what the money was spent on to those that bought the tickets. Just as in 2020 we are still feeling the effects of COVID-19. Families in our community still need help.

We have made about $1,000 this year from our Cobb raffles. Most of that money has been used to buy items for the Thanksgiving food boxes that will be delivered next week. I have also begun buying items for the stockings I am currently making.

The money will be used for toys for all of the children, 3 coats, 4 pairs of shoes, some blue jeans, Kroger gift cards, 2 utility bills, and Christmas food boxes. Because of my friends, we were also able to donate a used car this week to a single mother, providing much needed transportation to and from work.

Last year with all the help from my friends we accomplished so much. I am asking for that assistance again, from those that have been a recipient of help in the past that are doing well now or just friends that have a little extra and would like to help me in this endeavor. Even just giving up a fancy coffee for the day would make a difference. I have started a go Fund me page that will be up until right before Christmas if you would like to donate. I would like to be able to give each family some money on top of the food and items next month when I visit. I am unsure of how much I can raise since I am a bit late in the game waiting until now to start this. I do know that any amount I can raise will be greatly appreciated since right now they are living paycheck to paycheck.