By Karen Gleason
The 830 Times
Toys and food for the community’s less-fortunate residents were collected Saturday at the Whitehead Memorial Museum’s annual “Christmas at the Museum” toy and food drive.
A Christmas wonderland, including festive light displays, inflatable Christmas characters, a snack bar serving hot chocolate, buñuelos and other traditional treats, and a holiday activity center for youngsters, greeted those attending the celebration.
Even Santa Claus, played by Del Rioan Robin Palmer, put in an appearance, along with his helpful elf, played by Gloria Culpepper, and friendly Christmas tree, played by Dottie Rowe. Youngsters who shared their holiday hopes with Santa got candy canes and a colorful goodie bag.
“We’re once again holding our ‘Christmas at the Museum’ toy and food drive, an annual event we have for the community,” said Whitehead Memorial Museum Executive Director Michael Diaz, adding the event has been held at the museum for some 15 years.
“We don’t charge people to come in to the event, but we ask that they bring either a new, unwrapped toy or a non-perishable food item,” Diaz added.
The toys will be donated to an organization called Briana’s Blessings, which provides holiday gifts for the children of needy local families.
“The food will go to Val Verde Loaves and Fishes, and they will distribute it to those who are in need,” Diaz said.
Diaz said the museum board and volunteers try to make the event a little bigger and better every year.
“We try to save up a little bit of money from all of our fundraisers so we can add a few more lights, a few more inflatables. We just want to make this more and more exciting and special for our whole community, especially the kids,” Diaz said.
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