The Carthage Christmas Club is checking its list as we approach the holiday season.
The club delivers boxes of food to those in need in the Carthage area.
“I think if people are looking for something for meaning in the Christmas holidays, this is one opportunity,” said steering committee member Joy Swearingen, who added the tradition dates back to at least 1960.
“That’s when the checking account was established. But it could have easily been around before that.”
The Carthage Ministerial Alliance ran the club for many years, then the ad hoc committee took over management of it.
The boxes are stuffed with ham, potatoes, apples, and other goodies that might be found on a holiday table. They also include foods that families might eat regularly, such as cereal, canned vegetables, and mac and cheese.
The amount of food in each box varies depending on the size of the family it’s being delivered to.
Swearingen said that as a volunteer, she benefits just as much as the families.
“I feel blessed that my family can get together and enjoy time together and not have to worry about providing the food that we enjoy,” she said.
“I know Christmas is a lot of things for a lot of people, but if it’s people getting together and having a special meal that fosters family togetherness, I think that’s important. And I think everybody needs that good, special feeling at Christmas time, and I’m glad if we can provide that in some way.”
Swearingen said the club works with County Market in Carthage to keep the cost down and make sure the same items are included in every box. She said they don’t need food donations right now, but could use some financial support.
“We have a good balance right now, but it takes over $6,000. That’s increased just the last couple of years because food prices have increased,” Swearingen said.
Donations can be taken to Marine Bank and Trust, 410 Buchanan St. in Carthage, or sent to Dave Dion, 220 S. Madison St. Carthage, Ill 62321.
Swearingen said they try to help 100 to 120 families who live in the Carthage Elementary School District, which includes Carthage and some small towns nearby. Swearingen emphasized you don’t need to have a child in the district to qualify for a food box.
The club is also seeking volunteers to help pack the boxes beginning at 1 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 13, at First Baptist Church, 601 Main St. in Carthage.
Volunteers will then deliver the boxes the next morning.
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