Operation Santa Claus accepts donations of toys, books, clothing
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on November 3, 2014 1:46 PM
For more than 50 years, Operation Santa Claus has remembered the forgotten during the holiday season - the elderly, those with mental illness and/or a disability living in local nursing homes and care facilities.
"It's one of those things that touch your heart," Chairperson Michelle Rogers said. "If it weren't for this, some wouldn't get a gift."
Sponsored by Mental Health Association in Wayne County, the goal is to collect basic necessities and show the Christmas spirit by enlisting time, talent and contributions from the community.
The MHA receives a "wish list" from area nursing and group homes, as well as care facilities, Cherry Hospital and O'Berry Neuro-Medical Treatment Center for residents with no family or friends at the holidays. Items sought can range from personal hygiene gifts, shoes and clothing to the occasional toy, book or music.
"There's always stuff if people want to donate things like lotions, soaps, body wash, baby powder, toothbrushes, socks, gloves, toboggans are always a good thing," Ms. Rogers said.
Beyond that, monetary donations are needed so volunteers can "personalize shop" for the individuals served, Emily Peacock, MHA president, said.
This year the program expects to serve approximately 300 residents. The deadline for donations is Saturday, Nov. 15.
The annual event has been sponsored by the local MHA and other chapters throughout the state since 1960. For more information about any of the programs, visit www.mha-wc.org. Personal care items can be dropped off at Ms. Rogers' office, on the first floor of the Pine Building at Wayne Community College. To volunteer to shop, wrap and/or deliver gifts, contact the office at 919-734-3530 or e-mail mhawc@att.net.
Tax deductible donations can be mailed to Operation Santa Claus, P.O. Box 1476, Goldsboro, NC 27533.