Members of Country Meadows Senior Men’s Golf Club will once again deliver some Christmas cheer to several Richmond families this year.
A tradition started by one of its members in 1999, the Roger Weseen Christmas Hamper Drive began humbly by bringing a turkey and some canned food to a family in need.
Now, the members raise about $3,000 annually and collect close to 2,000 pounds of non-perishable food for upwards of 15 families in Richmond.
“Each and every year for the last 17 years we have done this and our membership will tell you that giving back to our community and making Christmas a little brighter for some is a wonderful gift we give ourselves. It is this spirit of Christmas that makes our Christmas merrier,” said Jim Goodison, chair of the hamper drive.
First, they personally interview each family to see what their household needs are and what children’s gifts are asked for. They then shop for each family and personally deliver it to the families.
The golfers work with the Salvation Army to qualify each family. Member Graham Boyle said it is important to get to know each family before they commit to them.
This Saturday, they will visit each home with Mr. and Mrs. Claus and deliver food and gifts that will last long into the New Year, said Boyle.
