ASHTABULA — Shae Ballard is pumped up for Saturday’s G.O. Community Development Christmas party.The party will include a free meal, gifts for the children, fellowship and a reminder that Jesus is the reason for the season, said Ballard, a board member.This will be the 19th year G.O. Community Development celebrates Christmas, helping families who are struggling to have a merry Christmas. It has grown each year, Ballard said.It will take place at the G.O. Community Development building at 3703 Station Ave. (the former Thurgood Marshall Elementary School).Volunteers, young and old, will bring in gifts, prepare and serve the food.“All of the children will get a gift, a good gift,” Ballard said. “A lot of children don’t get Christmas presents. We have had many gifts donated by Ashtabula County residents and Toys for Tots.”Last year, the Rev. John Salters, board member and co-founder of G.O. Community Development, took the children on stage to sing Christmas carols as about 300 party-goers sang along.“It’s wonderful,” Salters said. “We always have an enthusiastic crowd.”Santa is expected to arrive with candy canes, Ballard said.Hot dogs, sloppy joes and chips will be served.“We always have 250 to 300 kids,” she said. “It’s such fun.”Salters credits the board of directors for the annual party’s success.
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