Prince Edward Christmas Mother (PECM) held its distribution day on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at the Firemen’s Sports Arena, enabling area parents to shop for their children’s Christmas presents.

Over 200 parents took part in the distribution day where they were able to choose books, coloring books and crayons, hats and gloves, stocking suffer items, games and a large and small toy.

In addition, The Hope Closet, an organization started by Heritage Baptist Church in Farmville provided parents the opportunity to choose clothing items for their children.

PECM is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to provide Prince Edward County families in need with toys, books and other gift items during the holiday season. The organization was established in 2016 by a small group of women in Prince Edward County who wanted to make a difference in the lives of those in need.

The organization works directly with Prince Edward County Social Services, public schools, local churches and other nonprofit organizations to identify those in need to ensure they have access to the program that the organization provides.

Each year the organization chooses a Christmas Mother to represent the group; however, this year instead of a solitary Christmas Mother, the organization chose a Christmas duo — Pattie Cooper-Jones and Chuckie Reid, as representatives of the organization.

“We chose Ms. Cooper-Jones and Mr. Reid because they are both so intricately connected to the community,” stated Lauren Showalter, president of the organization.

Cooper-Jones represents the 801 Farmville District on the Prince Edward County Board of Supervisors. Last year she served as chairperson of the board, is a member of numerous civic and community organizations, and is property manager at Parkview Gardens in Farmville.

“It is my pleasure to serve as part of this year’s Christmas Duo, as this organization has done so much to help provide for those in need during Christmas,” said Cooper-Jones.

Reid has served as vice mayor of the Town of Farmville since 2008 and has served on Farmville’s Town Council since 1986. Reid is retired from the U.S. Postal Service, where he worked for many years.

The organization is run by a volunteer board, which includes President Lauren Showalter, Vice President Kate Pickett Eggleston, Treasurer Megan Clark, Secretary Jenn Kinne, At-Large Member Tacola Scott and At-Large Member Cameron Patterson.

Thomas Hospitality, Merk’s Place and Domino’s Pizza provided breakfast and lunch for shoppers and volunteers.