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It is that time again for the many elves across Stanly County to venture out into the community and spread Christmas cheer to the many people who need a little help this holiday season.

OK, the above paragraph is taken from a previous column. It’s not as easy to venture out this year, and I don’t recommend spreading too much Christmas cheer due to COVID. But both of those comments probably let you know I’m on the evil side that believes in wearing masks and social distancing.

Sure, when Batman or Spiderman wear a mask it’s cool, but when your regular Clark Kent wears one it’s a bad thing. (Just so you know, our Jimmy Olsen believes in masks as well.)

Nevertheless, I sent out my usual request to see what local organizations could use this year. Like most of the things in 2020, it was disappointing. Only two organizations responded by the deadline, but I realize there are plenty of things happening this Christmas.

Yet, I do present the two that responded and I personally am going to find a way to deliver gifts from Santa to them, as long as I can find an elf with arms that stretch further than six feet.

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Dear Santa,

Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie would love to have the funds to purchase Christmas poinsettias. We could share the poinsettias with all of our patients and their families. Many patients just can’t decorate anymore, and we feel everyone should be able to have something to remind them of the holiday season. Poinsettias are traditional Christmas plants and would be a way to give our patients some Christmas cheer. Since 1981, Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie has cared for patients and their families with compassionate care, enabling them to embrace the end of life with courage, dignity and peace.

Beth Plowman

Community Outreach Manager

Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie

960 North First Street, Albemarle

704-983-4216 office

* * *

Dear Santa,

The participants at CARE Cafe have been especially good this year. They would be so appreciative if their stockings were filled with goodies this Christmas. Some of their favorite items are chocolate, peppermints, apples, oranges, nuts, lip balm, hand lotion, body wash, snack size crackers or cookies, devotion books, Christmas knick-knacks, gloves, scarves and homemade crafts.

We have five stockings to fill this year; two for men and three for women.

Please call Sandra at 704-986-2273 to schedule a time to drop off items.

Thank you for being so kind to the participants at CARE Cafe.

Sandra B. Nance
Director of CARE, Inc.

* * *

Well, Santa, you have work to do.

The elves at The SNAP have been good during this challenging year. Please leave them something nice.

B.J. Drye is general manager and editor of The Stanly News & Press. Call 704-982-2123, or follow bjdrye1 on Twitter.