Donated Gifts Can Make The Holidays Happy For Lorton Kids

More than 1,000 gifts have already been donated for about 600 of Lorton's less fortunate children. The has collected the gifts provided by churches, schools and individuals. But there are still 85 presents that haven't been purchased, and you could make the holidays happy for families who have it rough. 

"The amazing thing is that literally there are thousands of people who made this happen for these kids," said LCAC interim director Linda Patterson. "Lorton is such a giving community." 

The LCAC started an online gift registry with wish lists. Available presents include winter jackets, a toy car ramp and a girl's diary. Food gift cards are also needed, and the LCAC is requesting that they be valued at $20. Donations should be brought to the Moose Lodge, 9612 Fernedge Lane, on Saturday, Dec. 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

"Some of these kids are asking for barbies, but I know one teenager needs size 14-and-a-half shoes. The problem is that, goodness gracious, people need shoes. We have a lot of people to ask for very tangible things, new tennis shoes, jeans for their kids, a lot of things that our families just don't get new," Patterson said. "It's a very humbling thing to look at that website and see what kids in the Lorton area need."