Old Fort community collecting toys, donations

The Old Fort community is collecting toys, personal care items and monetary donations for children in need as part of A Christmas for Every Child. This is an annual program with guidance from Amber Herbert, and overseen by Old Fort Local Schools Guidance Counselor LeighAnne King, with help from the school's principal Erica Cobb. "This year, our needs have just went through the roof, for both Fostoria and Old Fort," said Amber Herbert, organizer of Fostoria's Christmas for Every Child and Toys for Tots. "What happens is a letter goes out to the parents, and all of the parents have a chance to list if they need help for the holidays," Herbert said. "They can list any toy needs, any (new) clothing. We've had people this year, especially kids asking for food." Zion United Church of Christ and Reflection Ministries in Bettsville are also helping to provide food for some of the families. A Giving Tree has been set up within Old Fort Schools. The Giving Tree allows individuals in the community to donate toys, clothes and hygiene items to local children in need. Additionally, a Giving Tree and box is located within the Dollar General in Bettsville for individuals to donate items, which will be given to the Old Fort families. "The need this year is much greater than it ever has been," Herbert said. "Without this program, many of these kids would not have things to open on Christmas morning. In my little corner of the world, I want to do whatever I can to make that little bit of magic happen for these kids — some of them have been through more things than I could ever imagine." Herbert noted The Teen Leadership Corps has helped by donating items for the program, as well as local businesses, staff members and students at Old Fort, and student organizations have also volunteered time and helped to provide gifts. The local art club also hosted a bake sale, with proceeds benefitting A Christmas for Every Child. "They are so giving, they are so appreciative and they're wanting to help," Herbert said of the Old Fort community. The program is still seeking toys, monetary donations and hygiene/personal care items. To donate, community members may take items to Pyramid Recruiting, 373 N. Washington St., in Tiffin, directly to the office in Old Fort High School or to Bettsville's Dollar General. Items will be collected until the end of the week and early into the next week.