To the Editor:

The spirit of Christmas giving was evident on Saturday, December 13, when the Christmas Holiday House project provided gifts to 129 families for 286 children. When Fayette citizen Carolyne Peery introduced this project to the community in 2002, she probably couldn’t have imagined the impact this project would have on families in Howard County throughout the years.  The program continues to grow thanks to current committee chairs, Pat Hilgedick and Beverly Markland, as well as countless volunteers.

The Outreach Committee of the First Christian Church of Fayette sponsors Christmas Holiday House.  The First Baptist Church members provide space for registration, storage, and distribution of gifts each year.  The Fayette High School Honor Society members help with moving items to and from storage.  A big “thank you” goes to these groups.

Pat Hilgedick and Beverly Markland work tirelessly and selflessly to assure that the Christmas Holiday House continues its fine work in Howard County.  Laura Lewis is instrumental in shopping for age-appropriate items throughout the year and organizing the distribution process.  Many other volunteers work diligently throughout the year to:  purchase gifts; collect drop boxes; register families; organize, set out, and distribute gift items; and clean up afterward.  The time and efforts of all the volunteers are very much appreciated.

THANK YOU to everyone who donated items and/or money this year.  Donors included individuals, church groups, civic organizations, businesses, and other groups. The Fayette Police Department, for the fourth year, hosted a BBQ fundraiser with proceeds going to Christmas Holiday House.

Each year Scholastic, Inc., headquartered in Jefferson City, has donated boxes of books for all ages.  We appreciate their continuous outstanding contribution!

Appreciation also goes to The Fayette Advertiser and the Glasgow Missourian for publicizing registration and distribution dates.  These area newspapers are very willing to help get the word out to everyone in the county. 

Those wishing to support Christmas Holiday House 2026 may make purchases or cash donations throughout the coming year.  For information, please contact one of the co-chairs of Christmas Holiday House:  Pat at 660-888-9932 or Beverly at 573-239-0709.

Sincere gratitude and a “Merry Christmas” to all from the Christmas Holiday House Committee. 

“Christmas is the spirit of giving without a thought of getting.”  --Thomas S. Monson