The Spirit of Christmas program is designed for Chippewa County residents who are in need to receive gifts for children through 17 years of age during the holiday season. Children are the top priority with adults being take of as money donations allow. Gift wishes are fulfilled depending on the availability of the items.

Spirt of Christmas of Chippewa County is a non-profit allvolunteer organizations. It was formed in 1988 at the request of clergy who saw a real need in the community and sought to coordinate the Christmas-time efforts of individual churches to aid less fortunate families.

The gifts provided are the result of the generous donations of many individuals, businesses and organizations throughout the Chippewa Valley. These donations, whether time, gifts or money are greatly appreciated. Monetary donations are used to supplement gift donations.

Spirit of Christmas is staffed by volunteers with no paid staff and no permanent office. All duties and operations have been done in donated space for packing and storing donated gifts.

Spirit of Christmas is not affiliated with any other organization and fulfills the Christmas wishes of approximately 1,500 children annually. For more information, call Spirit of Christmas headquarters at 715-944-4272.

In Stanley, the Stanley Lions Club coordinates gift delivery each December.

Applications for Spirit of Christmas are available at www.thespiritofchristmasofchippewacounty.com. They are also available at Chippewa County Department of Human Services – Economic support, Room 305, Courthouse, 711 N. Bridge St., Chippewa Falls, WI 54729.

Completed applications are due by Nov. 18.