Russellville church promotes the spirit of giving

Trinity Lutheran Church of Russellville youth Hannah Mehmert and Kate Oligschlaeger wrap gifts for children at the Santa's Workshop Giveaway Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016.
Trinity Lutheran Church of Russellville youth Hannah Mehmert and Kate Oligschlaeger wrap gifts for children at the Santa's Workshop Giveaway Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016.

RUSSELLVILLE, Mo. - Tables were filled with holiday decorations and other home decor pieces for children to select as a gift to their parents or loved ones.

For the third year, Trinity Lutheran Church in Russellville has hosted the Santa's Workshop Giveaway following the annual Russellville Lions Club Christmas parade downtown.

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About 60 local families take advantage of the simple program that provides new or gently-used clothing and toys for parents to select for their children, as well as items for the children to select for their adult loved ones.

Jill Hayden, 18, was a member of the church's youth group when it decided to offer the program.

"We could always see the need in this town, through the (monthly mobile) food bank and winter coat drive," Hayden said. "This time of year, everyone feels the need to be doing something more.

"Whenever I see little kids suffering, that's the hardest for me."

Hayden helped distribute personal hygiene items to families after they picked out their gifts.

"I feel great; this is how we can show God's love to our community in a low-pressure way," she said.

Other local churches, area businesses and church members support the program as well, said Anna Wise, a member of the Trinity council.

Wise said she is fond of the kids room, where children may secretly select and wrap items for free. The best part is to see the smile come over a child's face, she said.

"Giving is what it's about; Christmas is an opportunity for us to others and spread a little of God's spirit," Wise said.

Local parents also are appreciative of the kindness.

Chance and Angela Crabtree selected a few items for their son, Tryston, 7.

"This is awesome and (you) ain't got to beat the holiday rush," Chance Crabtree said.

Angela Crabtree added, "I think other places out to do it more.

"For a lot of people who can't afford Christmas, this helps them out."