Trending
If you happen to drive past the corner of East Pershing Street and South Lundy Avenue in Salem from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, that long line of children and family moving along will number in the hundreds -- anticipating early Christmas moments at The Brightside Project.
"Bright Christmas" will be held at the faith-based 501c3 non-profit organization's building. You have likely seen the brightly-painted building which has become a landmark. The Brightside Project was launched in 2016 by a father-daughter team, Scott Lewis and Lisa Wallace. With more than 20 years of combined experience working with low-income and underserved families they decided to launch a non-profit that would reach out directly to children.
"Children in Columbiana County and surrounding communities in Northeast Ohio are hurting. They are struggling to see a bright future as they battle against hunger, poverty, drug abuse, neglect and complex emotional and mental health issues," reads an entry at brightsideprojectohio.org.
"The Brightside Project was launched to meet the needs of these children. We know that they have basic needs that need met with food and personal care items. We know they have social emotional needs that can be met through mentorship, friendship and love. We know that these children experience dark moments in life but even in the darkest times we can show them there is a brightside."
Thanks to donations of money and gifts -- most for children -- and plain old sweat equity, The Brightside Project has served thousands of county residents.
That includes a yearly highlight being held Saturday. "Bright Christmas" is in its eighth year. Last year nearly 700 children participated and 600 or more will benefit this time around.
Any child, infant-to-18, from Columbiana County is welcome to attend. Kids can choose -- actually picking out something they really like -- age-appropriate toys/gifts while strolling through "Candy Cane Lane." They also receive nutritional food. Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet children.
Everything is donated or purchased via donations. It is all free. "Bright Christmas" is not income-based. Any child in the county can participate.
Each and every child coming through will receive gifts and goodies. When you are dealing in the hundreds, that is a remarkable achievement on behalf of The Brightside Project which is not only supported by donations but a sturdy group of volunteers. All done to make Christmas a little brighter for all attending.
Those wanting to donate can still do so today by dropping off items like toys or monetary donations at 483 E. Pershing St. from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Of course, "Bright Christmas" isn't the only event this wonderful organization conducts.
Scott Lewis, Lisa Wallace and helpers are busy year-round, making The Brightside Project an anchor of giving and kindness throughout the whole of Columbiana County. Donations and volunteer help are always accepted and put to wonderful uses. Those interested are encouraged to visit brightsideprojectohio.org and gets details.