Leadership changes at Clearwater Christmas Project
Tue, 11/19/2019 - 12:41pm
admin
The Clearwater Christmas Project (CCP) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to bringing Christmas to those in need in Clearwater County. The stakeholders are the Clear Waters Life Center of Clearbrook, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Clearbrook, and the Tuesday Study Club of Bagley.
Through the efforts of volunteers and donations from residents, businesses and organizations, the CCP provides a memorable holiday experience for children in need and their families, ensuring the true spirit of Christmas remains alive and well for everyone involved. For over 45 years, the Clearwater Christmas Project has helped families and children in our county. Last year, 2018, the CCP provided toys to over 740 children and grocery vouchers for Christmas dinner to over 300 families, as well as 200 holiday meals at the three county senior centers for both deliveries and those eating at the center. Hundreds of people in our community had a “Merry Christmas” because of your generosity last year.
The total population in Clearwater County in the 2010 census is 8,695 with 11% of families and 15.5% of individuals living below the poverty level. Our median income of $38,099 is significantly lower than the statewide average of $57,318, which results in significantly limited financial resources across the county. Both school districts report an average of over 53% eligibility for Free & Reduced rate meals, compared with the statewide average of around 42%. Even those families who are not technically below the established poverty level are perhaps just barely above that line. With less income, less countywide revenue and more poverty, many Clearwater County residents are left in need.
Fiscally, the Clearwater Christmas project has relied on community support for all of our financial needs. Contributions can be made year-round as all donations are carried over from year-to-year. Monetary donations can be mailed to the Clearwater Christmas Project (PO BX 343, Bagley, MN 56621). There will be donation boxes for toys at Galen’s and Kubiak’s grocery stores through the holiday season. On Wednesday, December 4th, the Bagley American Legion Auditorium will be the location for distribution of toys and grocery vouchers by the Clearwater Christmas Project.
Tracy Imle has spearheaded the CCP for the past nine years after volunteering for three years prior. She is stepping down from her leadership role and handing the reins over to Lyn Schroeder, a fellow board member for the past nine years. Lyn’s involvement with Tuesday Study Club and as a CCP board member will serve her well. We are thankful to all those who serve on our board: Darien Northrup, Sherry Rettmann, Pamela Bodensteiner, Janey Merschman, Pastor Bob Kirchman, Darla Hoie-Ostrom, Lyn Schroeder, and Tracy Imle.
Sincere thanks to Tracy for her years of dedication in service to our community. Congratulations to Lyn on her commitment to service in the future!