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December 4, 2008

Gifts for all

Area businesses work to provide gifts for children

By Angela Weatherford Associate Editor

A local not-for-profit store is spreading the Christmas spirit to the less fortunate.

Gina Marrs — owner of the Pines Thrift Store — has been collecting names of children from her customers the last few months. Marrs is taking these names and working with local businesses to purchase Christmas gifts.

“There are so many people who have a kind heart for kids in this community,” Marrs said.

The thrift store carries items at a cheaper price then department stores. Marrs is also providing activities for the children, such as a manicure and pedicure given by students at Trinity Valley Community College’s Cosmetology School.

Brian Smith — who works with Marrs — said the TVCC students all volunteered to stay late for the girls.

“It’s great seeing girls this age willing to help others,” Smith said. “They also got the names of the girls and bought gifts for them.”

Each girl received an item-filled basket with their name painted on it.

Smith said Rounders provided free pizza for the event and many businesses have donated items that are being offered in a silent auction at the store.

“I get goosebumps just speaking about how the community has helped,” he said.

Marrs is originally from Wisconsin, but said she moved to Athens when she heard that there were people who needed help.

“I have done a lot of mission work,” she said, “and I realize every time that there are people that need help here too. Some people don’t even know that there are kids in Athens that don’t know where their next meal is going to come from.”

A Christmas Party is scheduled for the 64 children at CVS on Dec. 10. Food will be provided by McAllister’s and Pastor John Greene of Lake Athens Baptist Church will read the Christmas story. There is also a rumor that Santa Claus might make an appearance, Smith said.

A “Prince and Princess” tree has been set up at Pine Thrift Store for gifts from the community.

“You can buy a $5 gift at Wal-Mart and then bring it to the store and place it under the tree,” Smith said.

If people would like to donate money or items to the store they can. Also, there is a silent auction, with restaurant gift certificates and the items are displayed at the store.

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