Operation Hometown Christmas is ready for its second year of offering a coordinated and enhanced system of holiday assistance for those in need.

The goal of OHC continues to be utilizing one main database that will capture the names of those in need, along with a consolidated list of sponsors so that more families can be served while avoiding duplication.

Christy Stearns, Operation Hometown Christmas Committee organizer and Clinton County’s UK Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences Education, told the Clinton County News this week the effort is set to hold a kickoff informational meeting next Wednesday, October 20, at the Clinton County Extension Office.

Set to get underway at 11:00 a.m., Stearns said the purpose of the initial meeting next week would be to share updates regarding processes, deadlines, etc. She added that anyone interested in learning more about Operation Hometown Christmas is welcome to attend.

“Last year we served 414 kids and adults with the help of over 95 individuals, churches, businesses, and groups thatr sponsored families, donated toys, food, clothing, or made monetary donations. It was a major win for everyone and ensured better communication and enhanced services,” Stearns told the Clinton County News this week.

Other organization members also chimed in to the Clinton County News about the success of last year’s program and the hope to get even more volunteers involved this year in order to make the 2021 version even more successful for Clinton County families.

“Having a streamlined process made it better not only for the sponsors, but for the recipients as well. Sponsors were able to be more intentional with giving,” said Sarah Browning, another Operation Hometown Christmas committee member. “The committee has met throughout the year and engaged a number of new partners and sponsors in our effort.”

They added that letters to churches, businesses, and community partners have already been sent out for this season so everyone can get prepared for this event. The committee was thankful to receive its first donation of the season from the Sheriff’s Charity Motorcycle Ride.

Stearns added that the effort didn’t receive donations this early in its efforts last year, noting it seemed to be a great sign of community investment in Operation Hometown Christmas, seemingly putting the effort on the right path for a successful program this year.

Another important point to share with everyone is that Operation Hometown Christmas applications will be accepted through November 12th and can be turned in at the Extension Office.

Another committee member also noted the benefit witnessed last year from a unified community effort.

“It takes everyone working together to make sure we serve the most people and make the biggest impact”, Stacy Smith, OHC Committee member added.

For more information about Operation Hometown Christmas, contact the Clinton County Extension Office, 606-387-5404