RISON - Cleveland County Cares is collecting donations to help provide clothes and Christmas presents for those local families in need.
The fund raises money two ways during the holidays: cash donations and fundraising events.
"With the economy like it is, times are harder than ever," said Melinda McKnight who spearheads the care fund organization.
"We already have more than 40 kids needing assistance this year, which is more than we had total last year." Children and families are discreetly selected for assistance through notification from the Department of Human Services, local schools and churches.
McKnight said the program operates under the Pioneer Village's 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. She said all donations are taxdeductible and checks should be made to Pioneer Village with Care Fund written in the memo line. Donations can be mailed in care of Malinda McKnight, 10050 Hwy. 35 North, Rison, AR 71665.
Locally, donations can also be dropped off the Cleveland County Herald office, 215 Main Street in downtown Rison.
Cleveland County Cares will have a booth at the Party in the Park to be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at FBT Community Park in downtown Rison before the Cleveland County Christmas Parade.
McKnight said they will be raffling off items, in addition to selling cupcakes.