After 40 years, Christmas basket program stronger than ever
OTHELLO — Knowing that some of their neighbors were struggling financially, several Othello residents pooled their talents and resources in 1976 to start the Community Christmas Basket program.
The program is still a part of Othello, and it’s bigger and better than ever, according to Charlette Johnson, treasurer of Othello Community Christmas Baskets.
The original group of community-minded volunteers delivered five gift baskets that first year. Last year the program delivered more than 365 gift baskets.
The baskets contain a canned ham, flour, sugar, canned vegetables, juice, soups, cake mixes, potatoes, apples, onions and rolls. Toys, clothing and blankets are given as available and needed by the families.
The Christmas basket program was born when members of the Eagles Lodge learned of community members who were having a difficult time for the Christmas holiday.
“Each of them put in approximately $20 to help buy food for the families,” Johnson said. “The boxes had enough food to supply a nice Christmas dinner and an extra meal.”
The Eagles Lodge, the Moose Lodge and the Othello Volunteer Fire Department have all played a role in keeping the spirit of Christmas alive by giving time, money and labor. Today the churches, schools, medical clinic and local hospital get involved.
“The program tries to reach the most needy families in the community,” Johnson said. “The list is reviewed by members of the committee, and names are accepted by referral only.”
Individuals donate their cars and trucks to deliver each basket. They go out to spread the joy of the season and, sometimes, are shocked by what they encounter.
Some return with heart breaking stories of children locked in a trailer with no heat or blankets and few furnishings, children that race past the toys to find a warm blanket. Or they go to homes that house two and three large families.
“The program not only touches the people who receive the baskets; the individuals delivering the gift baskets are touched as well,” Johnson said.
The contact ends up in good news too. Over the years families helped by the program have become volunteers in the program. They pay forward the Christmas love they received.
Othello Community Christmas Baskets is a non-profit organization. It depends on the people and businesses from in and around the community.
The schools and churches collect canned goods. Individuals in the community sew blankets, knit hats and gloves, others donate time and money.
“The project brings our community together for a good cause every year, but additional support is always needed and greatly appreciated,” Johnson said.
Anyone interested in sharing time, money or labor should contact Merritt Johnson at 488-2471 or Ken Johnson at 488-5088.
Christmas Basket accounts have been set up with U.S. Bank and the Columbia Bank in Othello. Food items, toys, hats, and gloves may be dropped off at the Adams County Fire hall in Othello.