Kids Saving Christmas under way
Written by Aya Khalil | | news@toledofreepress.comLocal students are on a mission to save Christmas this holiday season.
Students from Toledo Public Schools, Washington Local Schools and the Catholic Schools, along with the City of Toledo are helping to raise $150,000 for the Kids Saving Christmas campaign.
The Salvation Army and the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program have a $150,000 deficit. Jackie and Aaron Frisch, recipients of the new home from ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition are also supporting this community effort. United Way is also participating.
The campaign started Dec. 8 and will continue through Dec. 20.
Kelli Kreps, media coordinator for United Way, said the organization collect money which will go to The Salvation Army.
“More people need help more than ever,” Kreps said. “I think the community as a whole is determined to do what they can to provide a Christmas for everyone.”
Kelly Hancock, a committee member from Kids Saving Christmas, said kids are coming up with creative ways to raise money such as penny wars, dances, auctions, and selling candy grams.
“The main focus is to not only help the community, but to hope that the kids and the rest of the community will understand how important it is to give,” she said.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help School raised $1,500 dollars by organizing a students vs. teachers basketball game, with a $1 admission. Students were allowed to wear jeans that day, but pay $1 in return.
“$150,000 is the ultimate goal, but anything we can do to offset that is a success,” Hancock said.
Adults are encouraged to donate to the fundraising campaign. Donations can be made at www.kidssavingchristmas.org or by writing “Kids Saving Christmas Campaign” in the memo section if they want to send in a check to United Way.
Donations will be split between the Toys for Tots and The Salvation Army.
To learn more about Toledo’s Kids Saving Christmas campaign dial 2-1-1 or (419) 254-4627 or visit www.kidssavingchristmas.org.
