Local residents are once again encouraged to help make the Christmas wishes of needy children in Lincolnton come true by participating in the Secret Santa Program.

The program is being sponsored by Lincoln County Family Connection, with assistance from the Salvation Army and the United States Marines' "Toys for Tots" program.

Secret Santas are asked to donate new, unwrapped toys to Family Connection which will, in turn, distribute them to those less fortunate in the community; the agency will be accepting toys for children ages 2-12 as well as monetary gifts through Friday, December 8.

Family Connection is located in Linco Place at 115 Main Street. Office hours are from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Family Connection is also encouraging individuals, families, church groups, school clubs, civic organizations, and businesses to sponsor a child or a family as an alternative to donating toys and/or money through the agency.

"As a volunteer, you do not have to get everything on the list; however, we are asking that the gifts be brand new," said Nancy Blount, Family Connection coordinator.

She went on to add, "Children who belong to families that have experienced financial difficulties throughout the year deserve an especially good Christmas. For many families, it is almost impossible to find the extra money needed to purchase Christmas gifts.

"We are urging the people of Lincoln County to open their hearts and help provide presents for children who would otherwise receive nothing for Christmas. The success of the program depends solely on volunteers in this community. I'd like to thank everyone in advance for their help."

To apply for assistance through the Secret Santa Program, parents or guardians must contact the Family Connection Office before 5 p.m. on Friday, November 10, said Blount. "The earlier an application is submitted the better - we want to give our Secret Santas plenty of time to do their shopping."

In other comments, the Family Connection coordinator said that if any individual or organization wishes to sponsor its own Secret Santa Program, her office will be glad to crossreference names to avoid the duplication of services.

For more information about the program, contact Lincoln County Family Connection at 706-359-5769/ 5766.