While the annual charity helped dozens of families have a happier holiday, the number participating in Community Christmas was down dramatically from years past. The need is still there, but organizers say the new three-class requirement to allow children to have their wish lists placed on Christmas Angel Trees appears to be weeding out some families. There are no plans to change the mandates.
"We're going to keep doing that," Crittenden County Interagency Council President Cheryl Burks said at a recent meeting of the group. "Three hours out of your time over several months so your kid's going to get what they want for Christmas, I don't think that's too much,” she said.
Each of the three required classes offered now through October is an hour long. Classes begin March 30 and several have already been slated for April. Parents may take any three courses, all of which are designed to empower, enrich or educate during the eight months classes are offered.
Pre-registration, required to attend, can be completed by calling Crittenden County Extension Service at (270) 965-5236.
Community Christmas also offers food at the holidays for senior citizens, but they are not required to take any classes to participate in that function.
Following are credit classes offered in March and April:
- MyPlate/Nutrition Presentation: Learn valuable information regarding MyPlate and other nutritional topics. Presenter is Ali Perryman of Pennyrile Health Department. Class is 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. March 30 at Crittenden County Health Department. Pre-register by Wednesday.
- Crocheting 101: A beginner class for those interested in learning to crochet. Presenter will be Becky Zahrte. Dates will be April 6 and 20 from noon to 1 p.m. at the Extension office. Pre-register a week before class.
- The Dangers of Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs: Learn about the most recent research on the dangers of drugs and how to talk to youth about these dangers. Presenter will be Chris Sparks of Pennyroyal Mental Health. Date will be April 14 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Extension office. Pre-register by April 7.
- Planning Meals for Everybody: Learn important meal planning information for the whole family. Presenter will be Sue Parrent of the Extension Service. Date will be April 18 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Extension office. Pre-register by April 11.
- Dealing with Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault: Get answers and find resources for domestic violence and sexual assault. Presenter will be Felisha Babb, a victim advocate. Date will be April 19 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Department for Community Based Services office. Pre-register by April 12. Pizza will be provided.
- Stress Management & Coping Skills: This interactive program will help you learn how to manage stress. Presenter will be Lori Robertson of DCBS. Date will be April 20 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Extension office. Pre-register by April 13.
- Gardening 101: Participants will utilize hands on learning and idea sharing to grow their knowledge of home gardens. Presenter will be Dee Brasher of the Extension Service. Date will be April 26 at 4 p.m. at the Extension office. Pre-register by April 19.
