Families across Boundary County took part in the second annual Share the Light of Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 20. 

The day began at 10 a.m. with Santa’s Workshop at the Veterans of Foreign Wars hall, where children were already lined up and enthusiastically waiting to visit Santa and choose a toy to take home with them. Volunteers, many dressed in costumes, greeted families as children selected gifts and posed for photos. 

“We had 186 smiles come through the door and 186 thank yous come out the door,” said Ben Apo, VFW post commander. 

Over at Mountain Springs Church, middle and high school students helped distribute hams and turkeys collected as part of the school district’s annual food drive competition. Organizers said the middle school won this year’s competition. 

In addition to food distribution, families attending the event were also able to receive warm winter clothing, including coats and boots, helping ensure children and adults were prepared for the colder months. 

According to organizer Samantha Banuet, student involvement played a key role in the success of the event. 

“The kids not only showed up with an overabundance of nonperishable goods that we had seen a need for, but they were extremely enthusiastic and helpful throughout the entire event,” Banuet said. “The students that helped with the event truly went above and beyond.”  

Local carolers contributed to the atmosphere throughout the day, adding even more holiday cheer to the festive event.  

Share the Light of Christmas is an annual community effort designed to support local families during the holiday season by providing meals, gifts and assistance through the work of volunteers, local organizations and churches. This year’s event was made possible through combined efforts of the Boundary County Veterans Services Office, In His Image Group, Community Action Partnership, Rotary Club of Bonners Ferry, Boundary County School District 101 and Mountain Springs Church. 

Unlike last year, when all activities were held at a single location, organizers adjusted plans this year after discovering multiple community events were scheduled for the same day. The result was a coordinated event held in several different locations.  

Looking ahead, organizers said discussions are already underway to plan one larger, culminating Share the Light of Christmas event at the Boundary County Fairgrounds next year. 

“This year’s event was a great success,” Banuet said. 

    BFHS and BCMS students at the Share the Light of Christmas event.
  

    Carolers at the Share the Light of Christmas event.
  

    Volunteers at the VFW Santa's Workshop.