Dear Editor,

On behalf of the over 600 children who attended Lighthouse Christian Camp’s Christmas parties this year, we want to thank Josh Isaac, fellow organizers of the 2nd Annual Festival of the Trees and the residents of Smithville and DeKalb County who so graciously donated toys and gifts. These donations were made available for campers to choose from when Christmas “shopping” at the parties.

Lighthouse serves area children in need. For some, the gifts received at our Christmas parties were their family’s only gifts this year. Because of the generosity of our community, this year’s Christmas was extra special for all who participated!

In addition to having the opportunity to “shop” for toys, clothes, coats and shoes for themselves and their family, children who attended also sung Christmas carols, listened to local pastors share the good news of Jesus’ birth, and enjoyed a delicious lunch.

The Christmas parties are just one of the camp’s free programs to children in need. Each year 600-700 children attend a week of summer camp. These same children are eligible to come back to camp for retreats held throughout the year. Local DeKalb campers also attend our after-school program.

Volunteers are always needed and welcome. Please contact the camp’s office at 615-597-1264 if you would like to help, make a donation or know of a child ages 9-11 who is in need and would benefit from our ministry.

Thank you and God Bless!

Michael Kilgore

Executive Director