Helping Those in Need this Holiday Season

By Kerry Watson, Director of Communications

It's unfortunate to know there are people in our rural communities struggling to

meet the financial demands of day-to-day life. The unexpected need for a new coat or a parent's stress of wondering if their young child will get to experience the joy of opening a present at Christmas can be overwhelming.

Members of the MKC Community Involvement Committee helped eliminate some of this stress for nearly 400 families through their annual "Share the Warmth" and "Angel Tree" programs.

Started three years ago, the annual coat drive, "Share the Warmth", is held each October just as temperatures start to drop. Thanks to the generosity of employees, customers and community members, this year's coat drive netted 250 gently used and new coats. Caps, gloves and scarves were also collected.

MKC's Angel Tree program was also started three years ago. According to Kaila Armendariz, member of the Community Involvement Committee, 150 children ranging in age newborn to 14 years old were adopted by employees.

"The generosity of our customers and employees has been amazing," stated Armendariz. "It feels good to give back to our communities, helping those in need."

The Community Involvement Committee extends their appreciation to everyone who contributed to these projects.