The Family Resource Center at Emma is in the Christmas spirit and is currently organizing Christmas toys for approximately 200 children and 50 families.  "Without the help from Children First these children, youth and their families would not be able to have a traditional Christmas," said Patricia Harrison, Director of Communities In Schools.  "This is another example of how Children First helps the children and their families in our community," said Harrison.  
The Family Resource Center at Emma currently has sponsorships and donations to provide a Merry Christmas to 120 children and 10 families.  "We are hoping to receive additional help so we can spread the Christmas cheer to the other 80 children and 40 families," said Harrison.  

Toy donations are being accepted at The Family Resource Center at Emma from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mondays through Fridays until December 10th.  If individuals, businesses, churches or other non-profits are interested in sponsoring a family, a child or to submit a monetary contribution, please contact the Center at 828-252-4810 or download the sponsorship form here.

Children First Family Resource Center at Emma opened the Emma Bucks Boutique on Friday, November 16th.  The boutique is open on Friday's from 1-4 p.m.  Items in the boutique include clothes, toys, shoes, books, kitchenware, etc.  There is an application process to be eligible to shop at the Boutique.  For more information contact the Family Resource Center at Emma at 828-252-4810.

The Emma Bucks Program is an alternative economy exchange involving members in the Emma community.  Individuals earn bucks through an exchange of services such as providing transportation to the grocery store for someone who does not drive, babysitting, cooking meals or by volunteering at the Family Resource Center at Emma. 

"The Emma Bucks Boutique is an incentive for people to want to earn the Emma Bucks," said Patricia Harrison, director of the Family Resource Center at Emma.  "It increases volunteerism in the community and provides affordable items for exchange that otherwise would not be within their means," said Harrison. 

Ms. Kristi Neal

Kristi Neal has been a strong voice on behalf of children in a variety of settings. As a Reverend Deacon at St. James Episcopal Church (Black Mountain) she helps lead their Children's Sabbath and reminds the congregation of the needs of our communities children - especially those living in poverty. She is a member of the Children First Advocacy committee and served on the McDowell County Board of Education.  Ms. Neal's professional work also involves helping children - she is the guidance counselor at Owen High School.  She is a great asset to Children First and we are grateful to be working with her.


Every month, Children First's Board of Directors recognizes a community member for their exceptional dedication to children. To see past Champions for Children click here.