“I can’t imagine sitting at my dinner table and sharing a holiday dinner with my family and then opening presents knowing that there are families, more importantly, our county’s children, that will have nothing,” Sheriff Kenny Christopher said in explaining why he chose to collect toys and food this holiday season.
On Monday, he proudly displayed the rooms full of toys graciously donated by citizens during the Christmas Parade “Buggy Food Drive” and Saturday’s Fred’s “Stuff the Cruiser” event.
Christopher said, “Benton County folks put the word ‘volunteer’ in the Volunteer State. They are absolutely the very best people out there. We had people pulling through the parking lot at Fred’s on Saturday afternoon, handing out money and asking us to provide whatever is needed for local families. We then gave the money to Fred’s associates who picked out age-appropriate gifts and we are ready to help out Santa Claus.”
The sheriff said Chief Deputy Jason Lowery and himself manned the county cruiser while deputies, Jonathan Bailey and Ron Netterville shuttled toys back to the sheriff’s office.
Fred’s management, Tony Bowers and Jerry Lamb were instrumental in the success of the toy drive, while local pastor, Troy Redmond and members of his congregation collected down the parade route.
“It was a joint effort by many hands in our community. I cannot wait to see the joy on the faces of the families that this will impact,” Christopher said. “This truly will be a magical Christmas for all.”
Families needing assistance is asked to work through a local church or the Benton County Ministerial Alliance, at (731) 584-7744. Those in need may also visit their office at 110 Armory Ave. in Camden.
