Program to brighten up holiday for needy children

When: Dec. 19, 10 a.m. to noon

Where: National Guard Armory

A local event hopes to bring some wonder into children's lives this holiday season.

The Christmas Wonderland will be hosted by the Scotland County chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People on Dec. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon at the National Guard Armory.

Rep. Garland Pierce, NAACP chairman, says the third annual event will likely have a big draw.

"We anticipate a large number of children," Pierce said. "We are trying to be prepared for 400 to 500 children, especially children under the age of 12 because those are the ones who enjoy the holidays a lot.

"Due to the economic situation in our community, with Scotland County being number one in unemployment and number two in poverty, we know that an increase in numbers will be there as people have called way in advance asking if we are going to be able to have the Christmas wonderland this year. They are already talking about it, so we are looking forward to having a great crowd."

The Wagram legislator and local pastor says all children are invited, whether they are needy or not, to take part in the yearly festivities.

There will be entertainment for children ranging from a storytelling puppeteer to a visit from Santa Claus and his elves. There will also be plenty of food and gifts to go around for all those who attend.

"We really enjoy fellowshipping with children and showing them the kind of leadership that those in the community should be about," Pierce said.

He also says they hope to teach children about giving back to others when they are able.

The NAACP is still accepting donations for the event. Contributions may be sent to Scotland County NAACP Branch, P.O. Box 545, Laurinburg, NC, 28353. Toy donations may also be brought to the armory before or during the event.

"Just the smallest of gifts means a lot to children so we just want to let them have an enjoyable day," Pierce said.

The legislator also says he can't do this event by himself. He gets a lot of help from the Scotland County Sheriff's Office as well as from Laurinburg Mayor Matthew Block and his wife, Desiree.