Kiwanis gears up Christmas bike collection

Christmas is just around the corner. You can help share the Joy of Christmas by participating in the Kiwanis Club of Gardnerville and Minden's "Annual Wheels Collection."

You may do so by donating any bicycle, tricycle, wagon or scooter, new or used (in good condition only). Drop off locations for any of these items are located at the Town of Gardnerville, 1369 Highway 395 (place them by the blue trash cans) or at the Gardnerville Improvement District, 931 Mitch Dr., between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. For a necessary pick up, call Willie Kersey, 265-6494, or Jerry Rasmussen, 265-9406.

Members of the club will oversee repairs of the vehicles which will then be donated to Project Santa Claus, operated under the auspices of the Carson Valley Community Food Closet.

The Kiwanis Club provides the finances to purchase needed parts which are used by the youngsters at China Spring Youth Camp, who are assisted by others at the Right of Passage Training Center.

This is the eighth year of sponsorship by the Kiwanis Club, which consistently provides 100 bicycles, plus other "wheels." to Project Santa Claus each year.

Project Santa Claus attempts to provide Christmas gifts for children who may not otherwise receive presents. Families are interviewed and approved by the Douglas County Social Services Department, according to Marilyn Malkmus, director.

If you have any of these items just sitting in the garage or yard, are outgrown or just in the way, drop them off now (so they may be repaired in time for Christmas) at one of the above locations and help share the joy of Christmas.

All Christmas gifts will be distributed a few days before Christmas from the Douglas County Fairgrounds by dedicated volunteers. For information regarding Project Santa Claus, call 782-4931.