SIKESTON-Since 1986, Missouri Department of Transportation employees have helped grant holiday wishes to Southeast Missouri families through the Christmas Angels program.
The program started with a MoDOT employee who wished to provide a gift to a child in need during the holidays. That year, a single crockpot of chili was given to coworkers for a small donation. Now the program has grown with area businesses and individuals purchasing approximately 1,500 bowls of chili yearly.
The Christmas Angels program helps purchase gifts for over 100 underprivileged children in the Scott and Mississippi Counties.
This year's event will be held Thursday, Dec. 2, with chili orders due by 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 29. The cost is $5.50 and will include a 16-ounce cup of chili, crackers and chips.
Current MoDOT employees and retirees volunteer to cook, pack and deliver chili for the event. With the funds raised, volunteers purchase gifts for children who would not otherwise receive gifts. Volunteers work with the Department of Family Services to identify children in need.
To place an order, please email sechristmasangels@yahoo.com or call (573) 472-5294 or (573) 450-9045. Please include your name, address, phone number and requested time of delivery (for orders of five or more) with your order. Orders of five or more in the Sikeston area can be delivered. The deadline to order is 4 p.m., Monday, Nov. 29.
Businesses or individuals wishing to donate to the Christmas Angels program may contact Jeff Wachter or Anita Clark at (573) 472-5294 or via email at sechristmasangels@yahoo.com. Donations are accepted year-round at the Highway Crossroads Credit Union, located at 741 York Drive in Sikeston, Missouri. Please make checks payable to Highway Crossroads Credit Union c/o Christmas Angels.
For more information about the Christmas Angels program, please contact Jeff Wachter at (573) 472-5294 or (573) 450-9045.
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