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In one day (Dec. 14), the Good News Rescue Mission volunteer coordinator and a team of volunteers wrapped more than 800 of the more than 1,000 toys, clothes and other holiday gifts the mission will give to children. Those receiving the presents are from families who are part of the mission’s assistance programs.
Gift distribution to needy families is part of the mission’s effort to give those struggling financially a merry Christmas, said Justin Wandro, the mission’s development director.
The mission will also host its community Christmas dinner for everyone, and hand out winter coats to people who need one, on Friday.
Here’s when and what the Good News Rescue Mission is doing at its celebration.
Good News Rescue Mission serves up community Christmas dinner
Mission staff say the dinner is open to anyone in the Redding community who wants to stop by.
The nonprofit will host its annual Community Christmas Banquet at the mission, 3075 Veda St. in Redding.
“We expect to serve about 600 (ham) meals,” served by approximately 100 volunteers, Wandro said.
The mission also booked two live bands to perform holiday and other music during lunch and dinner service.
Wandro said he hopes the dinner will attract people who are alone during the holidays — regardless of their financial situation, and give them a community with whom to celebrate the holidays.
Meals are served at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m.; and at 4 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Redding mission hosts winter coat giveaway
Also on Friday, the mission’s distribution center will also host a coat giveaway from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Coats are free to anyone — men, women or children — who need one to “stay warm and dry this winter”, according to the mission.
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How to donate or volunteer to help the mission’s homeless programs
The mission has donor and volunteer information on its website at gnrm.org.
People can also call the mission’s main number for more information: 530-242-5920. Hours are 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays.
Jessica Skropanic is a features reporter for the Record Searchlight/USA Today Network. She covers science, arts, social issues and news stories. Follow her on Twitter @RS_JSkropanic and on Facebook. Join Jessica in the Get Out! Nor Cal recreation Facebook group. To support and sustain this work, please subscribe today. Thank you.