Family Resource, Youth Services Center Prepare For Largest Affordable Christmas Program Ever

One of five rooms filled with toys for purchase from Edmonson County FRYSC's Affordable Christmas Program.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
The folks in Edmonson County's Family Resource and Youth Services Centers in Edmonson County Schools have prepared all year for the next few days. All the team work, fundraising, and most of all, the labor of love is going to help some needy Edmonson County families have a little brighter Christmas, thanks to this year's Affordable Christmas Program.

The initial program was created decades ago under the name "Angel Tree." While it was a success, it was revamped in 2019. Family Resource Center Coordinator for Kyrock Elementary and South Edmonson Alicia Edwards said the program changes were intended to empower low income families with the opportunity to purchase gifts at a cost of only $5 per child, which helps parents and guardians fill their children's specific needs with dignity.

Program participants also have the opportunity to wrap all the gifts while at the program.

With the help of many donors, volunteers, and Brownsville Missionary Baptist Church for the use of their facility, this year's program is ready to go with approximately $40,000 worth of toys and gifts for kids who could use it the most. Qualifying families are selected by school officials and are invited to the program.

Alicia Edwards shows the baskets of household goods and hygiene items also included to participants.

Mrs. Edwards, lead coordinator for the program, became emotional when discussing the program with us.

"When you see it all come together and see what our community can do, it's really special," she said. "The people that take part in the program are truly grateful and we believe we're making a difference in the lives of our families."

Members of the FRYSC team: L-R, Lisa Whobrey, Morgan Esters, Natalie Stice, Joanna Jaggers.

Alicia Edwards (L) and Sherrell Thompson, FRYSC members.

In addition to the purchase of toys, program participants also receive a laundry basket full of household goods and hygiene items and bags of clothing.

Today's open house goes until 6pm at Brownsville Missionary Baptist Church.