The Cumberland Community Christmas Mother Committee is in the final stages preparing for the upcoming distribution dates and celebration events. The Christmas Mother is still in need of girl’s jeans (all sizes), board games and puzzles. As always, a tax deductible financial donation can be made as well. Toys, clothes and items can be brought to Cumberland Social Services between 8:30 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Monday-Friday, located at 71 Community Center Drive, Cumberland. Checks can be made payable to Cumberland Christmas Mother and sent to “Christmas Mother” P.O. Box 33, Cumberland, VA, 23040.

Jars for donation have been placed at several local businesses for your convenience. At present there will be 131 families served this year (totaling 293 children and teens) as well as distribution of 100 gift bags in our community.

Distribution days and times will be Tuesday, Dec. 11, and Friday, Dec. 14, from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at 71 Community Center Drive, Cumberland. The Senior Luncheon designated for seniors ages 60 and older, and persons with disabilities, will be held at Payne Memorial United Methodist Church located at 1443 Anderson Hwy, Cumberland, Thursday, Dec. 13, at noon.

The Cumberland Community Christmas Mother works throughout the year to help families in the county. Several children in foster care and foster families are assisted through donations on a regular basis. This year alone the Christmas Mother stepped in to assist three different families who experienced loss through home fires. The work is more than making Christmas happen for those who may otherwise go without. It’s about caring and sharing with our community to strengthen families and assist those in need. Through your donations and efforts, the Christmas Mother will continue to be a blessing to the community.