Helping those in need at Christmas time.

See VIDEO HERE.

By Rob Alway. Editor-in-Chief.

LUDINGTON — Christmas is not always an easy time of year for families struggling financially. Thanks to the Salvation Army of Ludington and St. Simon’s Parish — and donations from many area companies and individuals — Christmas was made easier for a few hundred of those families today.

For the third year, the Salvation Army and St. Simon’s teamed up for a toy, clothing and food basket distribution at Ludington Area Catholic School.

When entering the buildings families are given a box of food that includes a ham from Sanders Meats, vegetables, milk, eggs, canned goods and vouchers from McDonald’s Bakery.

“I would say it’s enough for four meals,” Capt. Tim McPherson said.

Families with children are then brought to a “shopping” area where there are clothes and toys for gifts. Families already registered and some made requests for certain items, which Salvation Army tries to accommodate. They even could get their gifts wrapped by Girl Scout volunteers.

Gifts and food are purchased from donations and grants. The Salvation Army received a $2,000 grant from Toys R Us to purchase toys and children’s items. A significant donation comes annually from the employees of Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital and from area manufacturers and other businesses.

A few dozen volunteers, including the girl scouts and the Mason County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Patrol and many individuals, volunteer.

“This is just a wonderful experience,” said Mason County Commissioner Janet Anderson, who assisted “shoppers.”

“I’ve done this for the last three years and it’s just great to help someone experience the joy of Christmas,” said volunteer Jay Funk. “It’s not easy for many people to come here, but everyone is a crisis away of needing help. This just makes Christmas a little more special.”