High Desert Grange, Toys for Tots, and V Titans have joined forces this year to try to bring some happiness and joy in the upcoming Christmas season. “We know the challenges we face with the COVID-19 restrictions,” said Gloria Montero of the Grange, “but we hope we have found a way to be safe and still enjoy some Christmas spirit.”
The three organizations are offering three different Christmas activities that will help people get in the holiday spirit.
First, is a partnership with Toys for Tots to bring toys to less fortunate children in the community and bring a Convoy of Lights to neighborhood streets. Anyone wishing to join the convoy, which will depart from the Fairgrounds at 5:30 p.m. on December 11th, can request an entry form by emailing [email protected] or pick one up at the Toys for Tots office located at V Titans, 143 S. Maine Street. Montero says cars, trucks, and trailers are welcome and the convoy will travel north on Taylor Street, turning east on Williams, and then south on Maine Street.
People can also make a special request for the convoy to go down a specific street by emailing as well. Toy donations or cash to buy toys can be donated to the Toys for Tots at the time of the Convoy.
The second activity is the Store Front Display Contest, where local businesses can enter by submitting an application at the grange email above. There are three contest categories: Best Christmas Spirit, Best Light Display, and Biggest Donation, with prizes for the winner of each category. There will be a poll on the High Desert Grange Facebook Group Page, where the public can vote. This contest also requires a donation of a toy or cash for a toy to enter.
Third, is the Family Tree Contest in which anyone can submit a photo of their family Christmas Tree, and send it to the High Desert Grange email address. The photos will be placed on the group Facebook site for viewing and public voting.
Montero said normally the groups set up at the tree lighting to gather toys, as well as the tree festival, and the grange holds an ornament festival but none of those activities were working out this year because of COVID. “We all met and brainstormed some ideas to benefit the Toys for Tots with their project and also to try to bring some cheer to the community,” said Montero.
Because of the COVID-19, organizers have implemented a safety plan that includes the normal suggestions:
1. If you or anyone in your family is not feeling well or is sick, stay home.
2. Wear your mask or face covering.
3. Social Distance.
4. Wash your hands and keep from touching your nose, mouth, and eyes.
5. Anyone watching the convoy is asked to please stay in your cars in parking lots or to please park along the road. Follow all traffic and street rules. If you choose to gather on the street, please keep your group under ten people and give lots of space and respect to one another.
Contact Montero at [email protected] for more information.
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