The Christmas Happiness fund started in 1952 when Post editor Spencer Murphy asked the community to help children have a better Christmas, and in the nearly 60 years since, the community hasn’t failed yet.
Every year, the Christmas Happiness campaign helps Rowan County families in need buy gifts for their children.
The program is sponsored by the Salisbury Post, which collects contributions. The Rowan County Department of Social Services distributes the funds.
On Saturday, the first day families could apply, Social Services interviewed 363 applicants and approved 540 children for this year’s program. Applications also will be taken from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 10 and Dec. 17 at DSS offices, 1813 E. Innes St.
Last year, the campaign provided gifts to more than 3,000 children.
So while you’re getting ready for Thanksgiving, remember the children whose Christmas may not be happy unless you help.
Bring contributions to the Salisbury Post, 131 W. Innes St., between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or mail them to The Salisbury Post, Christmas Happiness Fund, P.O. Box 4639, Salisbury, NC 28145-4639.
Make checks payable to the Christmas Happiness Fund and indicate how you wish your donation listed.
Contributions so far:
In memory of Alex, Gennie and Lloyd McClamrock and Callie and Calvin Eagle by Alice McClamrock……………………….$100
In memory of Lawson and Mary McCombs by Steve McCombs……………………$100
In loving memory of my parents Frank and Georgie Ingram by Anne Ingram……………………..$25
East Rowan Senior High School Class of 1976………….$200
Total………………………$425
Running Total………….$3,675