More West Shore children in need this holiday season

The number of West Shore children in need this holiday season is rising and the West Shore Food Bank is trying to make sure they still get some joy this Christmas.

Through the West Shore Toys for Kids program, the food bank is looking to supply gifts to all of these children, as it has continued to do for nearly a decade.

The food bank's list of children has grown to more than 150 this year, and continues to expand. This reflects the increased demands on the food bank, which has seen needs increase by more than 40 percent, said director Leslie Knuth.

"It's just unreal," Knuth said.

The food bank has worked with area schools this year to identify those in need and get the message out about the program and that has also made the list grow.

More wish lists this year are showing a need for clothing, particularly warm winter wear like mittens, hats and scarves.

The food bank is also working to stock back up to supply Christmas ham dinners to those in need. The food bank recently distributed 150 baskets at Thanksgiving.

The toys and baskets will be distributed the Monday and Tuesday prior to Christmas.

To add the name of a child in need to the list, call or mail in the child's name, age, gender, address and three gift suggestions.

Donations can also be mailed in to PO Box 192 in Lakeside or dropped off at the food bank, located on U.S. Highway 93 South in Lakeside.

Monetary donations are preferred, and any toy or clothing donations must be new.

For more information about the food bank or Toys for Kids, call Knuth at 261-4560.

Celebrate a Child

Local businesses are doing their part to bring in toys for these children.

Tamarack Brewing Company and the community service group The Brew Squad are helping to make Christmas brighter by taking on at least 75 of the children on the food bank's list through their Celebrate a Child program.

Community members can stop by Tamarack, Fazooli's or Buns by the Lake to pick up a "wish angel" from the tree with the gender and age of the child and the gift he or she is wishing for this Christmas.

Those who wish to give monetary donations are encouraged to give by Wednesday, Dec. 9. These donations should be delivered to Tamarack. The Brew Squad will then shop with the funds for the kids. Gift donations do not need to be wrapped and should be brought to Tamarack by Dec. 16.