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One of the more popular, perennial holiday events in the area is the Rockbridge Christmas Baskets’ Packing Day. Marking its 76th year of service to the communities of Rockbridge County, Lexington and Buena Vista, Rockbridge Christmas Baskets will be welcoming packing volunteers on Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Virginia Horse Center’s Anderson Coliseum from 8 a.m. to noon.
“Our organization helps families struggling to put food on the table or provide a new toy for a child to enjoy, and it is our community partners and volunteers who help put this Christmas spirit into action,” said RCB board president Audrey Hawkins.“In the many years I have been involved with RCB, it never fails to impress me. The dedication within our community is something special to behold on Packing Day.”
Last year, 1,130 households were served. RCB helpers packed 40 tons of food and delivered 1,800 boxes. “In 2022, we packed 556 bags of toys and delivered to 1,165 kids,” said Ruth Candler, toy chair. Organizers note that many families are facing the same challenges this year, and and the community’s robust financial support is needed. “It helps that we have developed terrific partnerships with our vendors,” said Candler. “It really stretches our dollars.”
Paige Williams, donor relations chair for RCB, commented, “If you’ve never been to Packing Day, come see for yourself. You’ll want to make it a tradition – so many local families do. With live music, Christmas crafts, free snacks and hot chocolate, it’s truly enjoyable and heartwarming. The entire scene builds community connection. And it says a lot about our community that what started back in 1948 is still going on today, thanks to that same caring, compassionate spirit.”
In December of 1948, the Lexington Woman’s and Junior Woman’s clubs created the Santa Claus Truck as a way to deliver food to local households in need during the holidays. Their efforts quickly evolved into what has long been the volunteer organization, Rockbridge Christmas Baskets.
Soon, RCB will send out its Christmas card that serves as a bright reminder of the need for financial support of their efforts to help our neighbors in need. “RCB is grateful for McClung Companies for their complimentary printing,” said Jen Andrews, communications chair. “Our wonderful partners at McClung Co. help us keep our overhead expenses low so our donors can have the confidence that their gift is filling a box or toy bag. RCB stands on the shoulders of so many others, and there would be no Packing Day without them.”
Secure online giving to RCB can be done at rockbridgechristmasbaskets. org, or by sending gifts to RCB, PO Box 1030, Lexington, VA 24450
