News : Families begin receiving Angel Tree, Christmas gifts

A variety of quilts was also donated for the Christmas give-away.

Families began choosing their gifts Monday, at the ICAS building.

Glen Krug once again donated several toys he made himself.

A variety of toys, games, dolls and other gifts was available for area families.

For the past several years, LaNette Parker and other volunteers have been collecting and arranging the distribution of Christmas gifts. In recent years, the Harvest Valley Ministry was the sponsoring agency; this year the Vinton Area Ministerial Association (VAMA) is working with Parker.

The gift distribution also takes place at a new location: The ICAS building. Parker said she had trouble finding a spot for the distribution this year, but at the last minute was able to make arrangements with ICAS leaders. She thanked ICAS for making the program possible this year by offering two rooms at their building (the former West elementary).

Other volunteers include: Doc and Dorothy Miller, Leroy and Marilyn Katcher, Yvone Burkhart, Pat and Marta Floyd, Dale and Donna Sutton, Katie Ervin, Roger and Barb Beau, Steve Spicher, Sally Forreser, Mary and Cindy VanFossen, Karen and Dawn Larson, and Roger and Dorothy Albert.

Parker said approximately 225 families signed up for the gift and clothing programs this winter, down from nearly 300 in previous years. Many businesses and organizations, along with area individuals and churches, help the program by making donations each year.