Wanda English Burnett
Editor

The list is long and the need is great, but Shanna Joseph and her helpers are confident the people of Ripley County will come through.

Once again, an all volunteer group, Angels of Giving, has begun their drive to help those less fortunate have a merry Christmas. Joseph noted that already she has 65 applications that represent more than 300 people in need.

The group, associated with Bill Warren and his Toys for Tots project in the past, just want to make sure “that no one goes without on Christmas.”

They are asking for donations from businesses, organizations, groups, or individuals with no amount or effort being too small. “We truly appreciate everything that is donated,” Joseph told the Osgood Journal. She was a little anxious as they have not received any cash donations or toy donations so far this year. “But, it’s early, and I’m sure the good people of this county will come through,” she said with confidence.

To donate, you can send a check or money order to Bill Warren, 645 North Columbia, Osgood, IN 47037, marked “gifts.” Money needs to be received by December 5 to allow Santa’s helpers time to shop. Also, donations of toys and food may be left at the Ripley County Extension Office in Osgood, or Family Connections, Versailles. You can also contact Joseph at 756-0958 or 756-1399 to find out more about adopting a family.

If you are in need this Christmas, you can pick up an application form at either of the above agencies. The deadline to have those turned in is November 20.

Several independent groups have come together in the county to form the Angels of Giving group. They all work collectively to make sure there aren’t duplications in applications and to ensure that anyone who has a need gets help.

Joseph stressed that the giving includes families of all categories including elderly people who are living on a fixed income. A ham dinner was a request one year that made Joseph stop and think. “A special dinner at Christmas is something many of us take for granted,” she noted.

The group is working toward helping anyone who might need a little boost at the holiday season. With unemployment climbing and the economy declining, Joseph knows the group has their work cut out for them this year. “Any donation would help,” she concluded.