Conduit Ministries Hosts Weekend Toy Giveaway
Trending
Christmas got a little bit brighter for some who reside in Jamestown over the weekend.
Conduit Ministries Church, 120 Delaware Ave., on Sunday hosted a free toy community giveaway of new and slightly used toys, games and books at the church's main building along with providing boxes, wrapping paper, bow, ribbons and volunteers to assist in the wrapping and loading of vehicles.
"This was a success," said Oksana Miller, a photographer and wife of Luke Miller, Conduit Ministries' assistant pastor. "I was busy wrapping gifts for families, and I looked up 20 minutes later and almost all the toys were gone, and the room was filled with toys prior."
The toy giveaway was well-received and appreciated by the program participants. More than 50 different individuals and family members filled several bags full of gifts.
"Everything, and I mean everything, is just so expensive right now," said Alana White, a Jamestown resident. "My husband and I both work, and we have two kids together, plus my son from a previous relationship. I wasn't sure how we were going to pay rent, put food on the table, pay our car payment, plus insurance and still find a way to make sure Santa Claus made an appearance.
"I guess this church made sure Santa is all set to show up."
However, as much fun as it is to receive gifts, sometimes giving is all the reward one needs.
"I love being able to serve," said Brigitte Hirschman, a volunteer firefighter and Lakewood said. "There's such a need in our community; I'm glad we're able to help. This is what we're all about as a church."
Conduit Ministries, as a church, has chosen Jamestown as its preferred mission field, and is focusing on Jamestown by placing emphasis on socioeconomic revival of the city. That includes working on mental health and addiction and the restoration of the family unit.
"We live to serve and serve to live," Hirschman said. "The mission is right here in our city."