SOUTH POINT — Helping others is a monthly ritual for those who go to Cross Community Church in South Point.

That’s why when the Young Professionals drive to support the county’s Secret Santa program came about, Cross Community knew that was where they wanted to put their energy.

“Last year we sponsored 40 kids,” Jimmy Lemon, the church’s associate pastor, said. “Several members of the Young Professionals go to our church. And beyond that our church tries to do a monthly outreach project.”

For those 40 children the church members went out and bought presents and warm clothing. But the church didn’t stop there. They opened up their doors to the Secret Santa program and held wrapping parties for the gifts to be distributed by other sponsors and the program itself.

They even let their church be the location for parents to come to pick up the clothing and toys.

“Everybody in our church helped with the wrapping,” Lemon said. “And last year we distributed gifts. Last year there was one location and we had everybody come there. Members of our church helped pass out gifts.”

This year the church plans to double its efforts and reach out to 80 children.

“There are a lot of children in Lawrence County who for whatever reason didn’t ask for their situation,” Lemon said.

“They missed out on opportunities while their parents are going through hard times. Every child in our community has an opportunity to experience Christmas.”

Sharing stories about those who are helping the Secret Santa program is the purpose of The Tribune’s Season of Giving series. The Tribune wants to write about any organization that wants to make a child’s Christmas brighter this season by supporting the Secret Santa program.

Those who want to help the program can do so by sending their checks of any amount they wish made out to the LEDC Secret Santa and mailed to the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce office, P.O. Box 488, South Point, OH 45680.

Or they can also help out by sponsoring some children by contacting Casey Baker of the program at 304-691-8410 or emailing at lcypgroup@gmail.com.