To the Journal editor:

Thanks to many in the Ishpeming area, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) — St. John and St. Joseph Conference’s annual Christmas Basket distribution was a huge success as 108 Ishpeming-area households (213 people), including 21 families with school-aged children, received Christmas baskets.

This year, the Ishpeming Lions Club donated $1,000 of kid-friendly breakfast and snack items for families with children in addition to fresh greens from Partridge Creek Farms. Many businesses, private individuals, and organizations gave of their treasures and generously provided financial contributions for purchasing the perishable food items.

Organizations and businesses donating $250 or more included: American Italian Societies, Bell Auxiliary, Bethel Lutheran (Ishpeming), da Yoopers Tourist Trap, Dave’s Collision Center, First Bank, Ishpeming Kiwanis Club, Ishpeming Rotary, Paisano Club, R.L. Balconi, Seelen’s Home Improvement, Thrivent Financial and Our Redeemer Lutheran (Champion)/Woodland United Methodist (Michigamme).

The Ishpeming Catholic community and Bethel Lutheran Church donated most of the non-perishable food for the Baskets in addition to new pajamas for the children. Turkeys, hams, milk, bread, eggs, and butter were purchased to fill the food baskets, which held all the makings of a special Christmas meal.

The Baskets were rounded out with personal care items provided by a grant from Thrivent Financial, 906 Family Dentistry, and local churches; hats, gloves, and scarves donated by talented individuals in our community; books provided through the MARESA book drive; and bags of Christmas candy.

The families were so appreciative of all the extras. A big thanks to all of those who dedicated their volunteer time to this program!

Many in Ishpeming and beyond illustrated the true spirit of Christmas by giving time, talent, and treasure to bless these Ishpeming families for Christmas 2024.

God bless.