News : \'Stuff the Bus\' helps area families with Christmas gifts

Randy Lee discusses the toy give-away with Lanette Parker of Harvest Ministries and Bill Ervin.

Randy Lee of WMT and Jenny Janssen discuss donated toys for the 'Stuff the Bus' drive Monday.

Several area residents brought toys or cash to 'Stuff the Bus' at Ervin Motors on Monday.

The weather has been too warm for thinking about Christmas, said LaNette Parker of the Harvest Valley Ministry. But soon, she said, area families will feel the chill of winter and see the December snow and remember it's time to sign up for the Harvest Valley Christmas gift program.

One of the first public events to raise awareness of the Christmas program is the annual WMT "Stuff the Bus" campaign. Radio personality Randy Lee visited Vinton Monday morning, doing part of his morning show from Ervin Motors as he welcomed area residents who brought donations of cash or gift.

By 8 a.m., the box was full, and several items made and donated by area craftsman Glenn Klug surrounded the purchased items. Other residents brought cash. The box will be at Ervin Motors throughout the week.

More than 300 families receive gifts for children of all ages through the program each year. Parker said she expects about as many families to sign up this year as in previous years.

Other area events that help area families through the Harvest Valley Ministry are the Angel Trees at US Bank and the gift tree at G & G Auto Parts. Many businesses, churches, organizations and families also make donations of cash or gifts.

The deadline for sign-up (through HACAP or at First Christian Church) is Dec. 9. The distribution will be from Dec. 19-21.