Applications for the 2023 Sertoma Christmas Miracle may now be picked up in Seymour at various locations.
Those include the Jackson County Health Department, WIC office, Seymour City Hall, Jackson County Department of Child Services, Human Services Inc. and the Jackson County Public Library.
They are available at the library branches in Crothersville and Medora, too, and all participating agencies of Jackson County United Way.
Applications also are available during regular business hours at the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department in Brownstown and Bundy Brothers in Medora.
The application and cover letter may be downloaded online at jacksoncountyin.com/sertoma. Those who need a printed copy can stop by the Jackson County Visitor Center in Seymour if they do not have a printer.
Applications are accepted only by mail and not online, so the application must be printed and filled out in black ink. All applications must be received by Dec. 17. Applications have been distributed in English and Spanish.
“We will again have 2023 operations that are similar to 2022 and previous years,” said John Fox, co-chairman of Christmas Miracle. “We will conduct gift gathering and wrapping operations at Suite 211 in the Shops at Seymour mall, as was the case in previous years.”
All donations are used in Jackson County for the children of Jackson County. The headquarters’ phone number is 812-498-2275, but it will not be in operation until Dec. 1.
“We are not associated with any national or international toy drive. Anyone who donates gifts, gift cards or money to Sertoma Christmas Miracle can rest assured knowing that their contribution is used only for the children of Jackson County,” said Ryan Begley, co-chairman of Christmas Miracle. “This program only exists because of the extraordinary charity of the people of this county.”
Sertoma is participating in the Charity Tracker network to avoid any duplication of services. All applications must be signed by the parent or legal guardian.
Applications are accepted for children 12 years of age and younger. All children must live in Jackson County. In 2023, a letter of instruction is included with a revised application.
Sertoma is a nonprofit service organization that means Service to Mankind. Begley, who also is president of the Sertoma Club of Jackson County, invites area residents to visit and consider joining the club.
Sertoma meets at 6:30 p.m. every second and fourth Wednesday of the month at Schwätzer’s German Restaurant, 113 Indianapolis Ave., Seymour.