Though it’s still summer vacation, volunteers at Christmas House are preparing for one of its important missions – sending children back to school with new shoes. This project is made possible by the generous annual contribution of the N.D.H.P. Motorcycle Fraternity and they presented a generous check to CH volunteer Charlene Smith last weekend.

Our founder, Alyce Reese, began this program as an outreach of the Christmas House more than 20 years ago. Because we know of the financial hardships many families experience, we have no specific income requirements this year but ask that only families be aware that our resources are limited.  Only families who live in Potter County are eligible and the project is for school-age children (K-12).

We will begin taking applications for the school shoes on Tuesday, July 16. A parent or guardian will need to supply the ages, genders and shoe sizes of each eligible child in the family. Christmas House will be open on July 16, July 30 and August 6  between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and noon to accept applications. The telephone number is 814-274-0825. If we are not able to answer the phone, please leave a detailed message with your name and your telephone contact and we will return your call.

Deadline to order shoes is August 6. Shoes will need to be picked up at Christmas House on Monday, August 19 and Tuesday, August 20 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.Christmas House is a non-profit organization piloted by volunteers and fueled by the generous support of individuals and organizations in Potter County and beyond. The First Presbyterian Church in Coudersport (402 N. Main Street) offers us space in their basement as our headquarters. Our entrance is on the north side of the building and is accessible by elevator if necessary.