Spirit Lake group to spread holiday cheer

SPIRIT LAKE - Spirit Lake Visions, a nonprofit that assists children in need, is planning events and programs to spread Christmas cheer.

Youth are invited to visit Santa today from 1-3 p.m. at Spirit Lake Books and More at Highway 41 and Massachusetts. The visit will include treats and crafts.

Spirit Lake-area parents in need can pick up applications for gifts for boys and girls up to age 18 at the Spirit Lake Food Bank on Fourth Avenue just off Maine on Wednesday from 12:30 to 3 p.m. or at the Spirit Lake Senior Center on Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Families applying to Toys for Tots or Christmas for All for their pre-teens can register only their teens for the gift program sponsored by Spirit Lake Visions.

Applications are needed by 7 p.m. on Dec. 16.

Gifts will be distributed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Roy Racy VFW Hall on Highway 41 and New Hampshire.

The Santa shop in which children from low-income families can "shop" for their parents or guardians will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 21 at the VFW. There is no charge, but canned food donations for the food bank are suggested.

Meanwhile, Athol-area children are invited to have cookies and cocoa with Santa on Dec. 14 at the Athol Community Center. The event, which will also include craft projects, is sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary.

For more information on the events and programs, call Joy Porter at 818-4792.