84
| SUNRAYS
NOVEMBER 2013
ONLINE:
SCTXCA.ORG
Holiday Giving
By Maggi Jones
W
ith the holidays approach-
ing, we are often reminded of
those in need―both near and
far. For many, the holidays are a time
of joy and togetherness; but, to many
others, it can be a dark time filled with
loneliness, worry and stress. There are
several organizations within Georgetown
and Williamson County that aim to help
others, especially during the holidays.
The nonprofit organizations listed in this
article offer local opportunities to help
others this holiday season.
OPEratION BLUE saNta
512-930-8457 or
bluesanta.georgetown.org
Operation Blue Santa, managed by the
Citizen Police Academy Alumni Associa-
tion, collects and provides toys to under-
privileged children. Volunteers and area
businesses hold special events and barrel
drives to collect new toys and donations.
Finally, the toys are distributed to chil-
dren in mid-December and children get
to meet Blue Santa and participate in
fun activities while parents or guard-
ians pick up gift boxes at the distribution
center. For more information on special
events and barrel locations, visit the Op-
eration Blue Santa website.
wILLIamsON cOUNty
BrOwN saNta
512-943-1313 or
The Williamson County Brown Santa
provides families in need with toys,
books and other items to make Christ-
mas merrier and have a positive impact.
The program assists Williamson County
families with children up to age 17 who
live outside the geographical city limits
of any town or city within Williamson
County that does not provide a similar
program. To make a donation, volunteer,
or sponsor a family, visit the Williamson
County Brown Santa website.
mEaLs ON wHEELs
512-763-1400 or
The Meals onWheels program, provided
by the Williamson-Burnet Counties Op-
portunities, Inc. (WBCO), provides hot,
home-delivered meals five days a week
to those who, due to illness, disability or
age, are unable to do so themselves, and
those at Senior Centers. This program
aims to enable homebound individuals
to live independently as long as possible,
as well as to provide companionship. Un-
fortunately, due to funding cuts over the
last several years, many seniors have
been put on the program’s waiting list.
To donate or volunteer, or to learn more,
use the contact information provided.
