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Rowan Countians who need assistance this holiday season can soon apply for help

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For anyone who may need a helping hand this holiday season, a Rowan County nonprofit will soon accept applications for gift recipients. Rowan County Christmas supplies upwards of 500 families and elderly people in Rowan County with Christmas gifts and food vouchers each year. Starting this Saturday, November 9, the office at the Carl Perkins Center will be open for people to apply for the program.

Board member Rhonda Holley said applicants can apply this weekend but there are a few items they need to bring.

“You have to show proof of income for the entire household. You have to show something that shows that you live in Rowan County, like an electric bill, rent receipt, something like that, that has your address on it. So, then you come in and apply, then we give you a date and time that you come and pick out your gift,” said Holley.

She added this time of year is exceptionally hard on those in the community who struggle financially.

“With not as many people working, and jobless, and disabled, and things like that, they don’t have the money to meet their finances on a day-to-day basis, much less have anything left for Christmas. So, it’s a great need for this community and we are very thankful that we can help everyone,” Holley said.

She said those who are accepted will be able to go to the Carl Perkins Center at a scheduled time on December 13 to pick out gifts for their families, or if they are over 65, for themselves. Only one person is allowed in the facility at a time for privacy. If accepted, recipients can expect to receive age-appropriate gifts of all kinds except clothing. The last day to apply is November 23. The office is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Tuesdays when they are open until 6 p.m., and Saturdays when they close at 1 p.m. The office is closed every Sunday during the application period. More information can be found at rowancountychristmas.org or by calling 606-356-1661.