Junior Auxiliary helps children shop for Christmas

The Junior Auxiliary of Taney County has offered area children the opportunity to shop for holiday gifts for their loved ones each year.  

Santa's Gift House has traditionally provided gifts at a nominal cost, allowing children to shop for parents, siblings and others. This year, the event saw some changes.

Photo submitted)

Instead of being held in one central location, the Junior Auxiliary members set up Santa's Gift Shop in three separate locations: Elevate Branson, Mark Twain School and Bradleyville Elementary. At each location children were able to select gifts—free of charge—and have the gifts wrapped and ready for Christmas morning.

Children browsed a large selection of donated gift items including wooden signs, wall decor, framed artwork, windchimes, games, puzzles, jewelry and much more. Many of the items were hand crafted by the Junior Auxiliary members.

The goal of Santa's Gift House, according to the Junior Auxiliary of Taney County volunteers, was to give the children the joy of selecting thoughtful gifts without worrying about cost, as well as involving the community, who provided donations of gifts and support.

Said one Mark Twain student, "It felt like a real store, but everything was free. I could pick things and I didn't have to worry about money."

A teacher from the Mark Twain School added, "It was absolutely magical watching our kids thoughtfully choose the perfect item. The joy in their eyes was priceless! This wonderful gesture not only provided lovely gifts but also taught our students a valuable lesson in the spirit of giving."

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Junior Auxiliary of Taney County receives donation from Table Rock Community Bank

JATC Vice President Paula Gillispie, Scott Griffith of Table Rock Community Bank, Sheryl Schiller (JATC), Lily Codillo (TRCB), Brenda Galyean (JATC), JATC President Kelly Anstaett, Colleen Neill (JATC) and Heather Huffman (TRCB)

The Table Rock Community Bank recently gave back to the community in a big way when they presented the Junior Auxiliary of Taney County with a sizable donation.

The team at Table Rock Community Bank raised over $450 during a raffle at their Christmas party and the bank matched that donation, bringing the total presented to JATC to more than $900 for use in their Santa's Gift House event.

The Junior Auxiliary of Taney County expresses thanks to the Table Rock Community Bank for their help in making the holiday brighter for area children.