Family briefs

By: 
Press Staff Writer

Oak Harbor Christmas Drive nominations being accepted
        On the heels of the Thanksgiving Holiday Food Drive and hand-delivery of more than 50 meals to residents, members of the Oak Harbor Police and Auxiliary continue their spirit of giving with a 2020 Christmas Drive.
        The third annual drive supports families in need in the Village of Oak Harbor and helps to provide gifts for children on Christmas morning.
        “Christmas is a special time of year, so we reach out to numerous residents and families to ensure they feel the holiday spirit,” said Oak Harbor Chief of Police Eric Parker. “We have developed a great community relationship, and we have been able to be an extension of the American Legion Post 114 to make things possible.”
        The Police Auxiliary will be accepting from the public private nominations of residents who might need holiday assistance. Those residents wishing to nominate an individual or family must contact the department to provide the name/address of those who could benefit from the program. 
        Typically, a few days before Christmas, members of the Oak Harbor Police Department and Auxiliary deliver the gifts to residents.
        According to Sergeant Taylor Beck, the point-person for the effort, the drive was originally launched in 2018 so residents knew they were not forgotten during the holidays.
        Financial donations for the Christmas Drive are welcome and necessary to make the program a success. Beck noted the department has been fortunate to receive generous support from community residents and American Legion Post 114, which has allowed the department to also take Christmas gifts to the elderly members of the community who may not have family close by, live alone, or could use some holiday cheer.        
        “With everything that has happened this year, it is so important that we look for ways to take care of our neighbors,” said Mayor Quinton Babcock. “The police department and its auxiliary go above and beyond to take care of our community.”
        Due to COVID-19, the department is asking for monetary donations only to help fulfill gift needs for the 2020 Christmas Drive.
        Donations may be dropped off at the police department, 146 N. Church St.  As a COVID-19 precaution, the department is currently closed to the public, however, staff will come outside and address anyone in need.
        Residents may also call the non-emergency line, 419-898-2055, preferably between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., to request a donation pick up or to make a nomination.
 
Winter Wonderland
        S.T.A.R.S. (Standing Together Against Real Slavery), in collaboration with Unity United Methodist Church, is presenting a Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru Extravaganza at the church, 1919 E. Broadway, Northwood.
        Organizers are inviting sponsors to help make the holidays special for area children who may be struggling, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gifts will be distributed Wednesday, Dec. 23 from 6-8 p.m. Children must be in the vehicle. COVID-19 safety precautions will be in place.
        For more info, contact S.T.A.R.S. Executive Director EleSondra “Ele” DeRomano at 419-280-2451 or Unity United Methodist Church Senior Pastor Jim Nevel at 567-938-9816.
        Fundraising dinner
        S.T.A.R.S. will hold a dinner to raise funds for Winter Wonderland gifts on Saturday, Dec. 19 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., 1910 E. Broadway, Northwood.
        The menu includes BBQ pork and beef ribs and chicken wings, breast, legs and thighs. Various side dishes are available including macaroni and cheese, baked beans, potato salad, pasta salad, spaghetti and greens with turkey. The cost is $15, which includes one meat option, two sides and a drink.
        Pre-orders are available by calling 419-280-2451 or emailing elsson21gmail.com. Delivery is available for 10 orders or more.
 
Wood Co. Bicentennial ornaments available
        Christmas ornaments celebrating the 200th anniversary of Wood County are now on sale in several locations in the community.
        The ornaments feature the historic Wood County Courthouse, which will celebrate its own 125th anniversary in 2021. Ornaments are available for purchase at the Wood County Museum, Wood County District Public Library, Way Public Library in Perrysburg and Beeker’s General Store in Pemberville.
        Ornaments will also be sold at the Wood County Courthouse 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23. The cost is $15.
 
Caregiver support group
         The Wood County Committee on Aging, Inc. (WCCOA) will offer a Caregiver Support Group at the Wood County Senior Center, 305 N. Main St., Bowling Green.
        The group will meet the second Monday of every month at 2:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 11, 2021.
        The group, which is for anyone providing caregiving assistance to individuals throughout Wood County, will provide resources, advice on managing caregiver stress, recommendations, and an outlet for caregivers to connect with one another.
        Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Contact Jessica Ricker in the WCCOA Social Services Department, at 419-353-5661 or 800-367-4935 to register or for more info. Respite care is available for care recipients during the support group and should be requested upon registering.
        Please note: COVID screening questions will be asked of all participants over the phone prior to the start of the support group. Social distancing will be practiced and masks must be worn by all in attendance.
        For information on WCOOA programs and services, call 419-353-5661 or visit www.wccoa.net.

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