By Shavonne Walker

shavonne.walker@salisburypost.com

SALISBURY — Larry Clodfelter stepped in as a Sunday School teacher at Providence United Methodist Church when the previous teacher became sick and eventually passed away. This week, the adult Sunday School class wanted to say thank you to Clodfelter and make a Christmas Happiness donation at the same time, said Barbara Howard.

“He always comes back, willing to pick right up and help us in our studies,” she said.

Howard said Clodfelter has been the teacher for the past three years and filled in during a previous stint. The school has given to the program for more than 10 years, usually in honor of their teachers.

As to why they give to the fund, Howard said, “We feel like the children need it and it is a worthwhile project.”

Christmas Happiness was started nearly 70 years ago as a way to get the community involved in helping Rowan County children have a little bit more than they would otherwise have for the holidays. In 1952, some families didn’t have the money to buy their children gifts.

The Salisbury Post editor at the time was Spencer Murphy, who penned an editorial asking for help. After his call for help, the community raised $1,811.41 in that first year. Last year’s contributions brought in $45,868.31.

The program is sponsored by the Salisbury Post, which collects contributions. The Salvation Army of Rowan County distributes gift cards. Readers send donations to the Post, often with a heartfelt tribute to a loved one, and the Post lists the names and amounts in the paper.

Contributions may be delivered to the Salisbury Post, 131 W. Innes St., between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or mailed to Salisbury Post Christmas Happiness Fund, P.O. Box 4639, Salisbury, NC 28145-4639.