Press release from the Asheville Optimist Club:
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year”. What a perfect line from a true Christmas Classic. Every member of the Optimist Club of Asheville, N.C. truly and honestly believes this, too. The Santa Pal project began 83 years ago in the basement of one of the club members. The toys were donated or bought by the club members and then distributed to the underprivileged children of the Asheville and Buncombe County area.
Throughout the years, the club, as well as, the need for Christmas toys, grew by leaps and bounds. The club members saw a drastic need to house the toys in a building in downtown Asheville, but did not have the funds available to pay for the rent. The merchants of the downtown area wanted to help play a role in helping the children and would help find a building each year to keep this project going. Also jumping in to help were the local newspaper, radio, and television stations.
With all of this publicity, Santa Pal became a household name around town at Christmas. We have been giving, not only toys, but much joy, laughter, many unimaginable surprises, and a tremendous amount of love to the children who need help at Christmas. As a club, we want to continue passing this “Most Wonderful Time” on to the families that are struggling to make ends meet. Santa Pal will always be here to keep the joy of giving very much alive and well.
Help Make Christmas a Wonderful Time
Due to so many unforeseen events in 2019, many more families will be in dire need this Christmas. We are asking for our community to pull together and help us make this Christmas a very special time for everyone. Please open your hearts and help us bring the joy that every child should have. You can make this season much brighter with your donation and help make memories that will last a lifetime. Last year we gave new toys to over 1300 children.
The goal for 2019 is $20,000. All financial support is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your tremendous help and support.
The next few weeks will be an important time for us. Tell friends and family about the program. Remember that our success depends on you!The Asheville Optimist Club Santa Pal is now open. We are accepting applications Dec. 2 – 24. The office is open from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday-Friday. We are able to assist children ages 2-12. Parents need to bring their picture I.D. , the child’s Medicaid card or Social Security card, and proof of residency. The office is located in the upper level of the Innsbruck Mall on Tunnel Road. For more information call 828-258-3230.
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Asheville Optimist Club Santa Pal
McKenzie Kanipe
828-258-3230
PO Box 1912
Asheville, NC 28802
www.santapal.org
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