GAINESVILLE - Skate Country was full of kids and parents Thursday night for a party thrown by the Gainesville Jaycees.
The Jaycees were there to distribute gifts for the youngsters purchased through their Empty Stocking Fund. The parents were able to secret the gifts away for Christmas morning while the kids played.
"I'm here for a party," explained Ky-lynne King, who admitted, "I can't skate too good."
King was one of 200 children refered to the Jaycees by the Southern Baptist Association, according to Empty Stocking Fund Director, Chad Thomason.
"They actually provide a list of what each kid wants and give us their size and things like that, and we go through Walmart and shop individually for each kid," he said. "When you see those kids riding those bikes and smiling, it makes it all worthwhile."
The Jaycees spent $125 per child, split between toys and clothing. Assistant Director Justin Green said they raised over $25 thousand through fundraising and corporate sponsorship.
"We raffle off a car," he said. "This year it was a '69 Camaro. Last year it was a Ferrari. We also have donations from individuals and corporations. We also sell stockings at different gas stations and banks."
The kids skated and visited with Santa Claus, and enjoyed food provided by Wendy's
Tuesday
May 6th, 2025
11:22PM
