Santa’s Gift House is back

HERRIN — Volunteers are needed for the 20th anniversary of Santa’s Gift House. A fundraiser for Williamson County Child Advocacy Center, the event will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 1 in the old Maytag building, 410 E. Lyerla Drive, in Herrin.

WCCAC Executive Director Leah Brown said the center is seeking donations for the gift house. She said the event would not be possible without the donations from local residents and members of the business community.

On Dec. 1, donated items will be on display in a store-like setting, and children ages 4 to 12 may shop for Christmas presents. Young shoppers may purchase up to 10 presents.

Most gifts range from 50 cents for $4, but a few are priced at $5. All of the proceeds will go to the center.

Children who plan to shop at the gift house should plan to bring their parents to registration at the Maytag building. Registration will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Nov. 26, 27, 28 and 29. During registration, parents may reserve a block of time for their children to shop.

“This is new this year, as we hope to reduce the waiting time for children to shop,” Brown said. If a child does not have a reserved time to shop, she said the child will be worked into the shopping area as soon as a spot is available.

Santa Claus will be on hand to greet youngsters, who will have the opportunity to get their picture taken with him for only $1.

The center is seeking monetary donations, as well as craft items, baked goods, new or lightly used toys, jewelry, books, etc., as well as items that can be part of a raffle. New clothing, ties, etc. will be appreciated; however, no used clothing will be accepted.

WCCAC at 501 S. 14th St. in Herrin opened in 1992 and continues to serve the special needs of sexually abused children in Williamson and Franklin counties. The center receives federal, state and local funds, but depends upon donations and fundraisers to supplement.

Donations for Santa’s Gift House may be dropped off from 4 to 8 p.m. Nov. 26 to 29 at the Maytag building. For more information, call the center at 618-942-3800.