To the Journal editor:

Thanks to many in the Ishpeming area, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) — St. John and St. Joseph Conference’s annual Christmas basket distribution was a huge success!

One hundred twenty-three Ishpeming-area households (275 people), including 25 families with 34 school-aged children, received Christmas baskets.

This year, local individuals and the Prayer Shawl ministry utilized their talents to crochet/knit nearly 290 washcloths that were given out to each family.

Many businesses, private individuals and organizations gave of their treasures and generously provided financial contributions for purchasing the perishable food items.

Organizations and businesses donating $250 or more included:

Bell Auxiliary, Bethel Lutheran in Ishpeming, Cleveland Cliffs Inc., da Yoopers Tourist Trap, Dave’s Collision Center, First Bank, The Fire Station, and Ishpeming Kiwanis Club.

The Ishpeming Catholic community and Bethel Lutheran Church donated most of the non-perishable food and cleaning supplies for the Baskets in addition to new pajamas for the children.

SVdP only needed to purchase turkeys, hams, milk, bread, eggs, and butter to fill the food baskets, which held all the makings of a special Christmas meal and breakfast.

The baskets were rounded out with personal care items provided by a grant from Thrivent Financial; hats, gloves, and scarves donated by various talented individuals in our community; books provided through the MARESA book drive; and mugs/teacups filled with goodies. The families were so appreciative of all the “extras”. A big thanks to all of those who dedicated many hours of time as volunteers to this program!

Just like the magi at the first Christmas, many in Ishpeming and beyond brought their gifts of time, talent, and treasure to bless these Ishpeming families for Christmas 2023.

God bless.