Could you be a "Secret Santa" for a child in Rutherford County?

Nov 10, 2014 at 01:00 am by bryan


"Christmas is our family's favorite holiday," said Child Advocacy Center board member Claire Tuma when she was asked why she is a 'Secret Santa'. "We love the idea of helping another family to be able to create joy and memories that will last a lifetime and for them to have all that they need this holiday."

The Child Advocacy Center is recruiting 'Secret Santa's' to help make abused children's Christmas wishes come true. The Tuma, Derryberry, and Thompson families shared why they wanted to get involved this holiday season.

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"We do not have children and decided it was time to give back and help a family in a difficult situation," said Mary Ann Derryberry.

"I do it because I have had to ask for help before and I know how it feels to need help at Christmas and wanted to give back," shared Sandra Thompson.

The Child Advocacy Center is a non-profit agency that works with the Department of Children's Services, law enforcement, and the District Attorney's Office to investigate and prosecute child abuse cases.

"When your child is sexually abused it turns your world upside down," said Director Sharon De Boer. "Many of the families served by the Child Advocacy Center are struggling financially and cannot afford to provide Christmas for their children. Every year we sponsor needy children whose families have used our services during the year. It is heartwarming to see families have a joyous ending to one of the most difficult years of their lives."

For information on how you can get involved and be a 'Secret Santa' to an abused child, contact the Child Advocacy Center. In Rutherford County contact Jennifer Gamble at (615) 867-9000 and in Cannon County contact Amanda Pruitt at (615) 563-9915.

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