The holiday season is in full swing. During this merry and bright season, community members in and around Gary are taking extra steps to make sure it’s joyous for everyone. Many folks feel a squeeze on their funds at this time of the year, with finances cited as the main stressor during the holidays.
With the median household income in Gary at $36,874, finding ways to alleviate costs this season can be paramount. For those with kids, local businesses and organizations are hosting drives or events where free gifts are being offered. Capital B Gary has rounded up a list of those being held in the city and nearby areas.
Whole Truth Gospel Church of Faith
- About: This will be an evening with Santa for Lake County residents, where families can take photos with Saint Nick, and children ages 14 and under will receive gifts.
- Date and Time: Thursday, Dec. 14 from 5-7 p.m.
- Address: 1120 W. 17th Ave., Gary
- Note: Must bring an ID
Glen Theatre
- About: At this Christmas cartoon party sponsored by state, county, and city officials, kids will receive toys, candy canes and the chance to win other prizes.
- Date and Time: Saturday, Dec. 16, from 9 a.m. to noon
- Address: 20 W. Ridge Road, Gary
Dean and Barbara White Community Center
- About: Saturday’s toy and coat giveaway is spearheaded by Merrillville High School senior Kemon Holmes and will feature an opportunity for kids to take pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, get their faces painted and more. Sunday’s toy and coat program will be hosted by the organization 219 Ride’N Wranglers.
- Date and Time: Saturday, Dec. 16, from noon to 3 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 17, from 2 to 5 p.m.
- Address: 6600 Broadway, Merrillville
- Note: Toys and coats for kids ages 12 and under
All Things Autism Inc.
- About: This toy drive is sponsored by organizations that work with and advocate for children who have autism.
- Date and Time: Sunday, Dec. 17, from 1-3 p.m.
- Address: 843 E. 49th Ave., Gary
West Side Leadership Academy
- About: Families will board the Polar Express at this reading and holiday celebration where food, free books, giveaways, and gifts will be available.
- Date and Time: Tuesday, Dec. 19, from 4-8 p.m.
- Address: 900 Gerry St., Gary
- Note: Open to students and families enrolled in GCSC
Gary Teachers Union
- About: Free books will be given to youth at this community Christmas Eve-eve event.
- Date and Time: Saturday, Dec. 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Address: 1401 Virginia St., Gary
- Note: Open to students and families living in Gary
Gary Area Career Center
- About: Everyone in attendance at state Rep. Vernon Smith’s annual Spirit of Christmas dinner will not only receive a meal, but a gift as well.
- Date and Time: Sunday, Dec. 24, from 1-4 p.m.
- Address: 1800 E. 35th Ave., Gary
- Note: Open to all ages
Know of other holiday-themed drives? Let us know at javonte.anderson@capitalbnews.org, and we’ll add it to this list.