Berean Ministries Donates Toys to a Good Cause

Berean Ministries is wrapping up their annual "Christmas for Challenged Children".  The program, begun in 2001, is celebrating its 10th anniversary in a big way – serving the needs of 570 children in the Greater Baton Rouge Area.  "This was begun by my father and another member of our church," Pastor Kenny Kepper explained, "We work with St. Jude's, Volunteers of America, Capitol Area Human Services, Cadence of Acadiana, McMain's Child Development Center, Community Resource Coordinators, and LP Public Schools to get the names on our lists.  We provide toys and necessities for disabled children, but what is unique about our program is that we provide for their siblings as well.  In addition, when the parents are disabled, we provide presents for their children since so much money must go towards medical expenses."  He went on to explain that the names of these children are placed on trees in participating stores, this year at Walmart, both in Central and on College Drive, all Spectrum Fitness Centers, and Snap Fitness in Denham Springs. 

Their biggest support comes from the St. George Fire Department Santa Parade.  Held the first two weekends in December, 4 stations in the St. George Department provide fire trucks with Santa riding through the subdivisions throwing candy.  Following the fire trucks are Food Bank trucks and trucks from Christmas for Challenged Children.  As the trucks pass by the houses, everyone comes out bringing canned goods for the food bank and toys for the toy drive. (What an awesome idea!) This nets so many toys that Berean actually has a "toy room" for all the toys where those participating can "shop" for children whose names might not have been drawn.  "As a pastor, I'm glad they get toys, but I would love to see them receive necessity items too, such as socks, toiletries," Pastor Kenny said.  Berean Ministries starts its toy drive the weekend after Thanksgiving every year.  It's never too late to give, as any presents that come in after the toys have been distributed are saved for the following year.  Pastor Kenny said, "Right now, items for teenagers are very needed.  Gift cards, DVD's, CD's, necessities, all would be appreciated."  Help Berean Ministries this Christmas with this wonderful, far-reaching ministry for those in hardship this year.