Nearly five decades later — and now in its eighth year under the “Community Christmas” handle through Clayton’s Athletics For Education and Success organization — the goal remains the same: making the holiday season whole for area children and families in need.

“I can remember as a young kid, even with Mom working two jobs, not having much around Christmas time,” said Clayton, the AFES executive director. “And then suddenly we did. I didn’t fully understand it at the time.

“Fast forward to my early 20s, I learned all about Operation Christmas and what it did for our community. So I started to volunteer with them, and stayed active with it for the next five, six, seven years. Because I was that boy and we were that family who needed help, and they provided it for us and countless others … it was the least I could do.”

Operation Christmas was then adopted and renamed by AFES under Clayton’s direction in 2018. The drive serves hundreds of people each year, collecting and distributing anything from toys and clothes to food, toiletries and other household necessities.

-Messenger photo by Britt Kudla
Donated trees and toys are shown on Tuesday at AFES in Fort Dodge.

“It’s been our honor to handle all of this through AFES,” Clayton said. “Operation Christmas dates back to the (19)60s in Fort Dodge, and it was a no-brainer when the opportunity came along to take the reins. We had to keep it going.

“We try to make sure each kid gets three or four toys if possible and a new outfit. We sometimes have shoes for the children. And parents can come in and pick up the essentials, whether it be food items or hygiene products. We also have ornaments and wrapping paper that have been donated, and we’re raffling off some Christmas trees as well.”

AFES is winding down its drive for this year, but is still accepting both applications and donations for Community Christmas through Friday. Clayton indicated that paper towels, toothpaste, food and wrapping paper still top the list of needs, but “we aren’t picky” about what people are willing to provide.

Shawna Steding is the program’s director and organizer.

“If you need help or want to get involved, we’ll be there for you,” Clayton said. “Asking or giving.”

The response from the community “has been terrific, as usual,” Clayton added.

“They always step up and go above and beyond,” Clayton said. “We have four or five businesses and churches in particular who are there for this every year. And so many others help in their own ways by adopting or sponsoring kids and families. We don’t even have to ask.

“There are a lot of good people who want to be there for those who need assistance not just at Christmas, but all through these rough winter months. We take great pride in being the facilitator.”

Webster County families in need are asked to fill out forms as soon as possible in order to receive gifts. Applications are available at AFES, 712 Third St. NW, or by callingv515-955-2969. Donations are still being accepted by calling 515-571-0529.

Everything is slated for distribution this Sunday.