ALBERTON – Community members from Alberton gathered at the River’s Edge Resort last weekend for an annual event that raises money for kids of families in need around the holidays.

One of the organizers said the auction and fish and chips feed was the year’s primary fundraiser to raise money to make sure children in the community do not go without a little holiday cheer and goodwill. Over a hundred items were up for auction according to Kristi Abbey with Helping Hands, an organization that will go shopping for the kids in a week or so and then distribute presents and other items to those in need.

“This is all about the kids,” Abbey said. “We go out and buy things in their size, their favorite color and the toys they want. Then we bring those things back and distribute them. We also give out canned and dry goods.”

Abbey said all the items at the auction were donated by generous people around the area. She said the toys and food products would be available to pick up for designated families at the Alberton Community Center on Dec. 19, 20 and 21.