Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
By CHARITY SMITH
MERCER, Wis. — The Toys for All program, which benefits children of low income families in the Mercer school system, is gearing up for distribution day on Dec. 19 at 9 a.m.
“We have 41 children that we have gotten coats and boots and snow-pants, Christmas outfits and toys for,” said Louise Minisan of the Mercer Food Pantry.
She said that the program focuses on warm clothing, but there are lots of toys for the children, too.
“There are literally garbage bags that I use to pack all the toys in and some of those families get three or four of those garbage bags,” Minisan said.
She said participation in the program is down considerably this year. According to Minisan last year there were 72 children who received gifts through the program.
“I don’t know if it’s the COVID or if they’ve moved away, or if they’re not participating, I have no idea,” Minisan said.
Recipients have been asked to pick up their stuff in person, as Minisan said there’s too much for her to deliver.
She said that they have received some nice donations from the local stores, fire departments and government agencies.
The pantry will also be distributing 150 Christmas food baskets to area families. Minisan said the baskets consist of a complete holiday meal, including a turkey.
