Giving Tree applications due Oct. 31

MEEKER | The holidays can be a stressful time. Visiting family, tracking down gifts, planning around the weather, trying to find that obscure ingredient for Aunt Edna’s signature Christmas dish and juggling all of life’s regular responsibilities is often overwhelming. For families struggling to make ends meet, however, this time of year is even more stressful than usual. Many are faced with the choice between basic necessities and buying Christmas presents for their children. Thankfully, a local program seeks to make Christmas magical for families in need. The Giving Tree allows benefactors to purchase requested gifts, spreading both compassion and Christmas spirit. “Last year, we had 38 families and about 60 kids participate,” said Dawn Pozorski, one of the event’s organizers. Each child received approximately three to four presents through the Giving Tree. “It’s a great program. It’s really what Christmas is all about,” Pozorski said. If you’d like to help make Christmas magical for a child in need, ornaments with gift requests will be available at Meeker Drugs, 315 6th St., starting Nov. 10. Purchased items need to be returned to Meeker United Methodist Church by Dec. 1 so they can be gift wrapped. If you or someone you know would benefit from the Giving Tree program, please pick up an application at either RBC Social Services, 345 Market St., or Meeker United Methodist Church, 809 Park Ave. Completed applications, along with a copy of a valid photo ID and proof of income, must be returned by Oct. 31. Eligible families will received notification of approval via letter and will then be able to set up a time to open their gifts privately on Dec. 10.