Richard Froese
South Peace News

Big Lakes County is supporting a children’s Christmas in a small rural community north of High Prairie.

At its regular meeting Oct 23, council agreed to sponsor the Prairie Echo Community League in the amount of $200 for the annual children’s Christmas party on Dec. 15 at the Prairie Echo Hall.

The League requested sponsorship funding so the organization can increase the number of toys, crafts and activities for the popular and growing event, Joe Zdeb, director of corporate services, told council.

“The League has not applied for event sponsorship in the past,” Zdeb said.

“The organization applies annually for community hall operating grant funding and is eligible to apply for up to $11,000.”

League president Jenny Ehman says the event is becoming more popular.

“Every year, there has been a steady increase in the number of people who attend,” Ehman says.

“But last year, the increase was so substantial and unexpected that we would have run out of toys.”

Then someone came to the rescue.

“A board member quickly drove home and grabbed several of their Hot Wheels to ensure every child received a gift,” Ehman says.

“The board would like to increase the number of toys and craft supplies so there is not a repeat of last year.

“Excess supplies and toys left over would be saved for other events the society host throughout the year.”