Leeds Outreach is doing what they can to make this Christmas a very merry one for all Leeds residents. While the food pantry provides for the community throughout the year, the holidays provide an opportunity for them to further extend their reach into the community.

They are currently organizing a Christmas for Children project. The purpose of this is to provide local children with a Christmas day that they would not have access to without help from others This includes food, clothing, and any other needs the organization has the means to fulfill.

 “We are really wanting this event to bring the community together to help sponsor these children,” volunteer Susan Bertani said. “It’s a great way to help kids in the city have a wonderful Christmas.”

Leeds Outreach is a nonprofit organization that is funded by local churches, businesses and individuals. That support enables the organization to continue its mission to serve those in need throughout the community.

Christmas for Children is an event that the organization has been hosting for around 25 years. Last year, the food pantry was able to provide over 180 children with a Christmas. The volunteer staff at the organization hopes for even more success this year.

“None of this would be possible without the caring members of our community,” Barbara Higginbotham, Leeds Outreach Director said. “We really rely on the generous people that help and we are always looking for more volunteers.”

Higginbotham has been working with the organization for over a decade. She was initially drawn in by her desire to help her community and now hopes others will help fill that need, too.

“We need volunteers who are truly interested in helping the community.” Higginbotham said. “We need people who have a heart to serve others.”

The program is currently looking for people or businesses to sponsor children who will be participating in Christmas for Children. In addition to assisting with this program, the staff encourages community members to volunteer at any time with the organization. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteering, contact the organization at (205) 699-7291