Several entities recently made a sizable donation to support less fortunate children in Greene County.

Jefferson Kiwanis Member Tom Heater talks about their continuing effort to donate toys to the Toys for Greene County Kids with New Opportunities of Greene County.

“The Kiwans have joined together with Wild Rose (of Jefferson) staff, and also your radio station and just trying to raise some presents for the kids who might not otherwise have any. Some people are still digging out from COVID, so that could make a difference. We did about what we did last year where there’s about 65-70 gifts and $50 cash, so we’re hoping that helps out.”  

New Opportunities Coordinator Teresa Lansman says their need for kids to have a positive Christmas season has grown greatly this year, up to over 280 kids.

“We’ve got a lot of families that are either new to the area or some families that have been struggling this year, just on lower incomes and the prices of stuff going up. Some were very nervous about coming in to ask for help, and we’re all one time or another in a spot that we need some help. We are glad to help as many as we can with the donations from the community.”  

Lansman is asking for even more donations from everyone and those new, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at either the New Opportunities office in Jefferson or at the Greene County Courthouse with the County Engineer’s office with secretary Sherry Graven. Donations can be accepted through December 10th and the toys will be distributed on December 13th.