At this year’s annual Holiday Shop, The Johnson County Christmas Bureau successfully served 3,202 families ( 11,879 individuals). Thanks to everyone who made this possible, our many year-round volunteers, department chairs and all the schools, businesses, and community organizations that came to help at our Holiday Shop this past December. Our location at the Great Mall in Olathe was greatly appreciated and served us well to distibute groceries, toys, clothing, books, coats, and gifts to our families.
More people than you would realize came to the holiday shop for the first time this year, and gratefully accepted our help. With the growing population of Johnson County, and the down-turn in the economy, we are needed more than ever. Many community agencies no longer offer holiday help, so we have become the only county-wide organization to distribute to all ages and family sizes who need help. Thanks to everyone who donated or volunteered at this year’s shop. We couldn’t do it without your help. A special thanks to all our department chairman who work so hard to serve our families and make sure they have what they need for their families holidays.
Now that our shop is over, we continue to work year-round to prepare for this year’s Holiday Shop. Special fundraisers, including the Royals Chairity Night and our Holiday of Hope dinner and dance help us to raise the needed funds to serve the growing numbers of families we serve. Please read about our efforts on our web-site, and be generous in your donations.
Our new President, Jim Owens has become a wonderful addition to our JCCB Board. As a former Shawnee Mission School Principal and an active member of many organizations, Jim brings his expertise and experience, including years volunteering and chairing our grocery department to the Christmas Bureau. Jim has been invaluable in his hardworking desire to serve our mission. Barb McNeile continues as our Executive Director and works tirelessly to improve areas of communication and awareness in the community. Thanks to both these wonderful people and to all our board members who give so much time and effort into our organization.
Stay tuned for further developments, and I hope you can join us at one of our fundraisers, or at our Holiday Shop, to hear more about our mission, and the families we serve. Please share with those less fortunate this year.
