The Daviess County Fire Department is helping make a significant impact on the more than 2,000 lists that have been submitted to Christmas Wish this year. DCFD on Monday presented a record donation of $25,605.53 that was raised through their golf scramble earlier this year.
In its 47th season, WBKR’s Christmas Wish program has a mission that “every child in the tri-state gets a visit from Santa on Christmas.” WBKR personality Barb Birgy has served as the executive director of Christmas Wish for the last 8 years.
Birgy said the 2,059 letters submitted this year paint the picture of need in the community perfectly. She said the nonprofit aims to fill each wish list, and it wouldn’t be possible without donations such as the one received Monday.
“You see the letter count and you know how many kids are in need, and it makes you feel like you can make a difference. That’s exactly what happens here at Christmas Wish. We’re making a difference and helping families at a time when things are a little tight,” Birgy said.
DCFD is annually a major donor; last year they raised more than $18,000 through their golf scramble.
Fire Inspector Keith Hurm said they had 32 teams participate and had a live auction at the scramble.
“We just keep breaking records. It’s the community, that’s all I can say. They kept giving. We ask a lot all the time and they just keep giving,” he said.
Birgy said Christmas Wish receives donations from several businesses, organizations, and individuals — whether that be time, money, or toys.
While Birgy doesn’t have a preference on how people donate to Christmas Wish, she said that donating financially does allow leeway with how the group can grow fufil wish lists.
“I have discounts at certain stores. I’m tax-exempt. I can stretch those dollars farther, but either way, everything’s going to make a difference and everything’s going to help. So it’s all important and it’s all-encompassing,” Birgy said.
Donations and volunteering will be accepted until Christmas Eve, when they will have some of Santa’s helpers dropping off gifts throughout the day.
Out of Birgy’s 8 years working with the Christmas Wish, she said that without fail, the community shows up to help those in need and said it’s a humbling experience all around.
“Our team of volunteers is incredible. We have full-time volunteers who have been here for 2 weeks setting up this room and getting it ready to go. It takes a village and it takes a team like that. They work day in and day out,” she said. “…It just takes everybody coming together and I think we all feel the same way that we know we’re making a difference. It’s humbling, but it’s important, too.”
To volunteer, visit the Christmas Wish headquarters in Towne Square North by Big Lots and Hibbett Sports.
