Share the Spirit helps 1,050 children
Caption: Ethan Smith/Leader<br>Alex Loughlin, 5, digs into her gifts that were delivered by Polson firefighter Jodi O'Sullivan, left. O'Sullivan and other firefighters around the valley helped distribute the gifts to kids last Thursday, and final deliveries were made over the weekend, just in time for Christmas. In the background is family friend Jessica Hoel and Alex's mom, Melissa.
A total of 1,050 children were the recipients of Share the Spirit gifts this year — some 75 kids more than last year, reports Toni Young, projected coordinator. Polson Fire Department members distributed some of the gift last Thursday and the remainder were delivered by the end of the week.
Gifts included toys from the Marine Corps Toys for Tots project, clothing, games, infant care items, bikes, and more. Food requests were also filled.
Donors selected tags from Christmas trees in various business places in the community.
Young said public response to the annual program was very generous and is much appreciated. Share the Spirit has become an annual event that brings dozens of volunteers together to help local families.