Nearly 400 Wetzel County families had a brighter Christmas holiday season because of the generosity of individuals, groups, and churches. The Esther Crumbley fund board of directors wishes to express appreciation to those who assisted in any way with the project.

The Catholic Community Services staff accepted applications for food baskets and Secret Santa gifts. Children were adopted by individuals and members of groups and churches. Others donated gloves, scarves, mittens, extra toys, and Christmas decorations.

The New Martinsville Public Library accepted gifts through their Giving Tree to purchase children’s books. Dozens of volunteers provided assistance for the set up and distribution of items for the needy.

McDonald’s restaurant provided food for the volunteers.

Almost 40 bags of Christmas dinners were delivered to residents of the New Martinsville Towers.

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church provided the use of Klug Hall for the project. Santa himself was in attendance to greet the children.

At a recent board meeting, members evaluated the effort and began plans for a bigger and better food and toy drive in 2010.

Barbara Powell, publicity

The Esther Crumbley Food Drive