JOHNSON COUNTY, Kan. -- The Sears at 97th and Metcalf in Johnson County saw a lot of busy shopping over the years. This year, even though the store is now closed, it will be hopping and happily-filled with shoppers again for a wonderful reason:
The Johnson County Christmas Bureau!
Larry Bigus, Executive Director of the JOCO Christmas Bureau, says hundreds of volunteers began collecting contributions of coats, toys and personal care products last summer.
Then, about a month ago, they transformed the Metcalf space into a winter wonderland.
Over the next nine days, between 10,000 and 12,000 Johnson County neighbors who live below 150% of the poverty line will come through and make their holidays brighter.
Mr. Bigus says that sometimes people may think that everyone in Johnson County has everything they need and more.
The reality is that many people are struggling to make ends meet; making daily choices about paying for medicine or food or lodging.
Then, the holiday season hits, and more financial concern is added to the difficult equation.
For nearly 40 years, that’s where the Christmas Bureau has come in, and it's not too late to help. They will always joyfully accept merry monetary contributions, and they are short when it comes to warm winter coats.
Learn more here.
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