The economy may still be down, but contributions to our annual holiday food and toy collection campaign are on pace to set a record.
With about two weeks remaining, contributions to the 2009 AWB Holiday Kids' Tree Project have already surpassed $20,000, exceeding the 2008 total of approximately $18,000, said Bonnie Millikan, AWB office manager.
Because of the generous response, the program will be expanded into Eastern Washington for the first time this year, Millikan said.
"It's a cool thing," Millikan said. "People who know about it, they want to give money to these rural fire departments when they know people are struggling."
For 20 years, the Association of Washington Business has raised money that's distributed to rural fire departments in Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason and Thurston counties. The funds are given to fire officials during a tree lighting ceremony at the Capitol that includes the governor, fire officials and families.
Fire officials then use the money to purchase toys and food for needy families in their communities.
This year's ceremony will be Friday, Dec. 4 at 6 p.m.
To donate to the AWB Holiday Kids' Tree Project, donate online here or mail your contribution to:
c/o Association of Washington Business
P.O. Box 657
Olympia, WA 98507-0658
