The John 3:16 Center will be making Christmas a little bit brighter for 200 children in Halifax, Northampton and Warren counties. 

It is now accepting donations of toys and children’s clothing.

The Lake Gaston Association launched its annual toy drive to benefit the center’s outreach program.

LGA members have placed toy collection boxes in businesses throughout the Lake Gaston area and the Center for Energy Education will be launching its annual coat drive to benefit the children of the John 3:16 Center outreach.

Those interested in helping a child this season may sponsor a child for $100 or dropping off an unwrapped gift at the center or one of the drop boxes located in area businesses.

The center will also present The Wonders of Christmas. The displays will be drive-by friendly in storefronts on Main Street in Littleton, Creecy School parking lot in Rich Square and The John 3:16 Center. 

The center will partner with families to make the decorations being used in the displays to bring a message of hope and joy for the entire community to enjoy. 

Volunteers are needed for this project during the week of December 7 to December 15 at locations in Littleton, Rich Square and at the Center. Volunteers will be scheduled with mindfulness of social distancing and other safety precautions.

The lighting of the displays begins on December 18 at 6 p.m. in Rich Square at the Creecy School parking area and on December 19 at 6 p.m. on Main Street in Littleton. At East End Avenue, where the John 3:16 Center is located, there will be a Christmas message there.

The displays will be up until the 12th day of Christmas — January 6.  

For more information about the LGA’s annual toy drive call 252 586-6577. For all other inquiries please contact The John 3:16 Center at 252 586-1800.