Story and Photos by Lisa Carolin
Six-year-old Clara Marcum’s main reason for attending the Dec. 3, 14th Annual Material Girls Children’s Christmas Bazaar was because, “I like getting gifts for everyone.”
Her mom, Melissa Marcum, said she keeps the gifts a secret until she gives them to everyone.
There were 215 4-year-old to sixth-grade shoppers who attended the Christmas Bazaar for similar reasons, as well as a record number of buddies (6th-12th-graders) to take them around to choose and purchase the presents. It all took place at the Chelsea First United Methodist Church.
“We had a great turn out of volunteers, both Material Girls and non-Material Girls,” said Kelly Stoker, who heads the Material Girls leadership team. “We’re hoping to raise as much as $12,000 to donate to Faith in Action.”
Arlene Wiltse, also a member of the Material Girls leadership team, volunteered at the craft table, having designed the crafts and projects.
“I enjoy the excitement of the children and seeing it all come together after working all year,” said Wiltse.
The Material Girls have an additional project-collecting a 3-5 month supply of specific feminine hygiene supplies also for Faith in Action.
If you’d like to learn more about what the Material Girls do, come to their next meeting on the second Tuesday in November at noon in the Chelsea First United Methodist Church at 128 Park St.
