It’s that time of year again!  

Christmas is around the corner.  There are an estimated 13 million children living in poverty in the United States whose families can barely afford to put food on the table, much less buy gifts.

We can make a difference in the lives of many of the children of Panola County by providing them a gift and giving them hope for a better future.

In September an organizational meeting was held at the Sardis Presbyterian Church for the 2009 Secret Santa Project.  Individuals representing various churches, businesses and civic organizations in Panola County met in an effort to bring Christmas cheer to these needy children.  According to a spokesperson with the Department of Human Services, over 560 children were served last year.  Thank you for all your support in 2008. It was amazing!

Panola County Secret Santa will serve as the clearinghouse, once again, for the adoption of children and families who need to be assisted during the holiday season.  

In an effort to reach all of Panola County, applications may be picked up and returned to any public library in Panola County—Batesville, Como, Crenshaw and Sardis beginning November 2.

We need your support especially during these tough economic times. There are several ways that you can be of service.  You can be of assistance during this holiday season by volunteering to adopt children and families, providing monetary support, or purchasing gifts. There will be drop-off points for gifts in Sardis at First Security Bank and Renasant Bank; in Batesville at First Security Bank, Bancorpsouth, Renasant Bank and the First United Methodist Church; and in Como and Crenshaw at the First Security Bank..

We also need additional volunteers on the Secret Santa committee. Monetary contributions can be taken by the Batesville Presbyterian Church or mailed to Panola County Secret Santa, P. O. Box 428, Sardis, MS  38666.

For many, this message of kindness and hope is all that is needed to motivate them to grow up to become responsible and productive citizens.

For additional information about volunteering to adopt a child or family, please contact Diane Davis at 662-604-0496.

The deadline for adoption is December 12.  

Thank you for what you can do to help these children and families.

Sincerely,

John White

Chairman, Panola County Secret Santa