LINN — Osage Caring Projects Coordinator Charlotte Bellsmith said this year’s Christmas Wish program needs sponsors as the 100 families and 300 children enrolled, in many cases, involve larger groups.

“We are heavy in large families this year, some with five, six, or more kids this year,” said Bellsmith. “I understand that no one can adopt an entire family; it’s tough for everyone. I would encourage families to join together and help, if at all possible. Maybe a large group or family can pull together.”

Bellsmith noted that families are asking for winter clothing, boots, gloves, and a couple of fun gifts. “They are not asking for anything outrageous,” she added. “Just like every other child out there, they wish for either a bike or a Chromebook.”

Osage Caring is working toward gathering 100 bikes this year. “We are very grateful for the donations we’ve received,” said Bellsmith, noting that Mid America Bank, Osage Ambulance District, Three Rivers Electric’s Helping Hands Foundation, and community members have pitched in for the project.

“State Tech has graciously offered to order bikes for us and store them,” Bellsmith added, noting the hope is that students can build available bikes by Dec. 12. “Anything else we will have to do ourselves.”

Bellsmith said a build date of Dec. 17 is tentatively being planned for the remaining bikes, and asked that participants wanting to help bring their tools.

Another boon for Osage Caring Projects is the United Way’s Sneaker Project, which increased from 100 to 150 pairs of shoes for needy children. “We’re very excited that more kids can get shoes this year,” said Bellsmith. “They can stomp into class with pride.”

Mid America Bank is also holding a laundry supplies drive at its Linn location.

“If anyone wants to help, they can donate to help provide Christmas for a family or adopt a family,” said Bellsmith. “Anything would be greatly appreciated.”

Please text Linda Thompson at 573-280-6504 to adopt a family.

The drop-off event on Friday, Dec. 19, will be from 3 to 9 p.m. at the Osage County Community Center. Sponsors will also receive cookies and hot cocoa.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and hand out candy canes on Friday evening and Saturday, Dec. 20, with pick-up from 8-10:30 a.m.

Former State Tech students and other volunteers will serve as Santa’s elves to help take packages into the Osage County Community Center and load them into vehicles the next day.

“We are grateful for the continued support of our elves,” said Bellsmith. “All of our volunteers are very much appreciated.”

Volunteers will use Lakeside Book Company’s flatbed carts to transport packages. “We appreciate their generosity,” said Bellsmith.

Donations may also be made to the Daniel Mittenburg Scholarship Fund. Mittenburg was a Linn State Technical College student killed in a fire that destroyed Judy’s Cafe in October 2009.

Follow Osage Caring Projects on Facebook for updates.