KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Mission of Hope is kicking off their annual Cyber Barrel Christmas Drive.
Mission of Hope serves schools and ministry centers in rural Appalachia throughout the year. During the Christmas season, the nonprofit brings new toys and clothes, food and hygiene products to over 13,000 children and families.
From Friday, Nov. 17 through Tuesday, Dec. 5, shoppers can visit the online registries and select items for purchase. The items will be shipped to the Mission of Hope warehouse, where they will be packed and delivered to the students.
According to the nonprofit, items that are most needed are clothing and toys/gifts.
Appalachia, a region known for its proud people with a rich history of self-reliance and independence, has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including poverty, broken families, job loss and depleting coal mining economies.
The Christmas drive is a good way for people to contribute to the cause.
You can find posters at various locations in the area, featuring QR codes that link to the Cyber Barrel website.
In addition to the barrel drive, Mission of Hope will place blue barrels at select Food City, Home Federal Banks, Fisher Tire and Barnes and Noble locations. There, you can donate new toys, new coats and non-perishable food items.