Christmas Wishes fundraisers set for Dec. 1

LEADWOOD – Leadwood area residents are raising money for some of the area’s least fortunate children through a new program in its second year called “Christmas Wishes.”

The Christmas program, now a 501c3, started a year ago. They raise money to purchase Christmas gifts, including hats, coats and gloves, for children in need – from babies to age 18.

Two Christmas Wishes fundraisers will be held Dec. 1.

The new 18Wheels Motorcycle Association and Owl Creek Grill are sponsoring a toy run, starting at 1 p.m. at Owl Creek and parading through town. Owl Creek is located at 808 Caviness Drive in Leadwood.

All vehicles are welcome. To participate, bring a new unwrapped toy worth at least $10 or make a $10 donation. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there.

The Christmas Wishes board will then have a fundraiser auction at Owl Creek Grill, starting at 2 p.m. Items in the auction include gift certificates, tools, crafts, baked goods, a game system, home decor, a Jager tapped cooler, and Power Wheels.

Maria Rector, a member of the board, said last year, they helped 45 children and got electric turned on for a family.

Initially, the program’s goal was to help students in the West County school district but they were able to expand. Their goal is to help children who aren’t already being helped. They get a list from the West Count school district and also take referrals.

The board votes on each child and checks to make sure another organization is not already helping that child.

If you would like to refer a child or make a donation to the program or to the auction, call Maria at 573-562-2800.

In addition to filling wish lists for children in need, the group will also host a free Christmas party for the community from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 16 at Owl Creek. Santa will be there.

Rector said the 18Wheels association has been awesome. She hopes they will help with more fundraisers next year.

The 18Wheels Motorcycle Association is a family-oriented motorcycle association designed for Class A, B or CDI truck drivers, long haul and local, active and retired.

Teresa Ressel is a reporter for the Daily Journal and can be reached at 573-431-2010, ext. 179 or at tressel@dailyjournalonline.com.