Clearwater Christmas Project 2020
Tue, 11/17/2020 - 3:13pm
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. In 2019, the CCP provided toys to over 700 children (and we ran out of toys!) and grocery vouchers for Christmas dinner to over 200 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 had a “Merry Christmas” because of the generosity of this community.
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 is significantly lower than the statewide average income. Our school districts report more families eligibile for Free & Reduced rate meals than the statewide average. Even those families who are not technically below the established poverty level are perhaps just barely above that line. Factor in the current pandemic situation and we know that we have many families who need help this Christmas.
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). Wednesday, December 2, from 1-7 pm, the Bagley American Legion Auditorium will be the location for distribution of toys and grocery vouchers by the Clearwater Christmas Project.
Distribution will look different this year as we adhere to CDC guidelines regarding personal interaction. Masks are required. Digital registration will enable a contact-free experience. Upon registering, your needs will be filled by a personal shopper and your toys and/or grocery vouchers will be delivered to you outside the facility. Watch next week’s paper for further details.
Lyn Schroeder, Tuesday Study Club president and CCP board member for many years is the chairperson of the Clearwater Christmas Project. Other board members are: Pamela Bodensteiner, Darla Hoie-Ostrom, Tracy Imle, Pastor Bob Kirchman, Janey Merschman, Darien Northrup, Sherry Rettmann, and Lois Rydeen.
Thank you for your support as we work to make Christmas 2020 memorable for everyone!