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With the holiday season approaching, The Charlotte County Christmas Parents have been able to overcome many obstacles to make Christmas a reality for children in need. “We are very grateful to the Salvation Army Board for allowing us to operate under their umbrella so that donations made will be tax-deductible,” said Kay Pierantoni, who represents the Wylliesburg/Red Oak District on the Charlotte County Board of Supervisors (BOS) and is a member of the organization. “Also, they have generously ordered 250 stockings for us to use.”

At one time the Charlotte County Christmas Parents served seven counties and has been in operation for over 20 years.
The organization was not able to provide gifts for children in 2018. “Personally, I hate to think about letting this go as I think about the children who will be disappointed at Christmas this year,” Pierantoni said.

Over the years, the organization, run entirely by volunteers, has provided toys and even clothes for hundreds of children who would not otherwise have anything under the Christmas tree.

According to Pierantoni, even though the organization is operating under the Salvation Army umbrella, the mission is the same. “We wish to provide underprivileged elementary children and disabled children with toys at Christmas,” Pierantoni explained.

Donna Fore, who represents the Phenix/Aspen district on the BOS, joined the organization for the first time this year. I felt like this was a wonderful opportunity to provide a special holiday celebration and gifts for children who might not have a very merry Christmas,” said Fore. “The program is a great blend of individual and corporate sponsors, bringing donations and extra resources to help our children in need.”

To raise funds to purchase gifts, the organization is seeking monetary gifts “In Honor Of” or “In Memory Of” someone special.
In addition to monetary donations, the organization is seeking individuals who would be willing to have a decorated box at their place of business to collect toys.

For more information on the Charlotte County Christmas Parents or to donate contact Kay Pierantoni at (434) 568-7414 or (804) 387-2531.