Our Global Issue: Appalachian Mountains and Miners: A Grinch in Appalachia STOLE THE TOYS

 In West Virginia, Wyoming Co. has a long tradition of making Christmas happen for their children. It’s in the middle of coal country, and one of the poorest counties in the nation—this is where our church member, Amber Pennington, grew up.

This year, they raised thousands of dollars for their Christmas Toy fund, and bought toys on sale all year. Then thieves broke into the Toy Fund storage and stole or vandalized most of the toys! So, in spite of all their foresight, they need last minute help. Let’s not let a Grinch steal Christmas!

$6.00 per child – as of Friday, that’s how much has been collected to make up for the loss.   They have a list of 3,000 children referred by the Dept. of Social Services.     Here’s the easiest way to help-   You can write a check and put it in the mail today! Please write your check directly to Wyoming County Toy Fund and mail to L. Dale Stewart, Treasurer; P.O. Box 268, Matheny, WV 24860. 
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Wednesday evening, while we wrapped presents for children at Park Hills, we brainstormed on what we could do to help.   We came up with three ideas:  spread the word on Facebook; take up a collection at our holiday dinner; and purchase gifts from Amazon to send directly.   We’re getting the word out on FB; some members and friends are sending money in directly; and our holiday dinner collection generated over $300.

Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love"   / Hamilton Wright Mabie