A connection of joy

Volunteers getting ready for the Christmas Connection distribution a week from Saturday.

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Story Published: Dec 4, 2008 at 9:30 PM PDT

Story Updated: Dec 4, 2008 at 9:30 PM PDT

By Stephanie Smith

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CLARKSTON - St. Vincent De Paul is hard at work preparing for this year’s Christmas Connection.

"We have signed up 500 families and we have also signed up 500 homebound people, homebound families and last year we signed up 644 families and 25 homebound families," said Executive Director Shannon Koskenmaki.

Friday is the last day to sign up and they expect the numbers to grow. The event takes place on December 13.

"Santa Claus will arrive on the fire truck at 8:45 a.m. and we are hoping that the kids will have a lot of fun seeing Santa arriving and then getting to talk to him after they've come through the line and gotten their gifts," said Koskenmaki.

Organizers hope people will be generous in making donations, even though times are tough.

"There's so many people that are in need every year and this year we feel there is a lot more need, because of the economy the way it is, because of layoffs," said Koskenmaki.

And they are still in need of toys

"Toys from age 0 to 16, we are including the older children this year, last year also, because as the kids get older, they still need something for Christmas," said Koskenmaki.

Christmas Connection sign-ups end Friday, but donations will continue to be accepted.

You can drop off a toy or check at St. Vincent De Paul in Clarkston or mail a check to 604 2nd Street. You can also call (208) 758-7061 for more information.

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