The community rallies every year to help those less fortunate during the Christmas season and this year was no exception. Santa’s Community Effort in the Vernal area was able to provide gifts for 167 families, a total of 481 children, shares effort coordinator Brian Gorum. The Duchesne County Old Fashioned Christmas effort also had great support, providing goods and gifts to over 80 families. The Duchesne County effort was headed by the Duchesne County Chamber of Commerce but worked with 5 agencies who also helped the families. “The community was so generous,” shares Duchesne County Chamber Director Irene Hansen. “It is a privilege to work with so many partners in the community including stores and agencies to make sure that we are covering all our bases. The most impressive thing is the families that come in with their little children to give gifts. That is always the most touching part of the entire program.” Santa efforts have a long history in the Basin with many agencies and individuals heading it up over the years.
