Christmas in July try to bring some cheer

Holiday coming early to residents with Santa Claus, lunch distribution

“The Christmas in July celebration bringing smiles and happiness to local children and families is more important than ever this year.” — Eastlake Councilman Mike Zuren

Christmas is coming early this year to Lake County residents as plans move full-steam ahead with the Christmas in July celebration.

The novel coronavirus pandemic has led to many summer events being cancelled. However, Lake County volunteers are focused on finding ways to stay connected.

On July 13 and 14, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., residents will have the opportunity to meet Santa and receive some gifts, as well as take part in a lunch distribution.

On July 13, the lunch distribution will be in Willowick at Willow-Praise Church, 32901 Vine St. On July 14, the lunch distribution will be at Painesville Assembly of God, 10949 Johnnycake Ridge Road.

The event is open to the public, and no sign-up is needed.

The lunch program will be set up as a drive-thru with lunches being handed to the drivers in their car. Santa will give presents to either the parent or children. No names or registration is required.

Organizers say COVID-19 precautions will be taken for each distribution, all volunteers are vetted, and their temperatures are taken daily.

During the two-day event, the free kids lunch program will be partnering with Asa’s Angels and Santa Claus. Asa’s Angels is a community outreach program run by Asa Cox that assists local children and families.

Santa also will be dropping off gifts personally to residents at Deepwood Center.

“Considering what the country has faced with the coronavirus pandemic, including schools and most summer activities being canceled, the Christmas in July celebration bringing smiles and happiness to local children and families is more important than ever this year,” said Eastlake Councilman Mike Zuren.

Zuren has already been doing many lunch distributions in the community through the free lunch program. They have already distributed over 11,000 lunches to families.

With COVID-19 leaving many parents unemployed and in need, the city stepped up to help. These lunch distributions have made a big difference for some people and their families.

“It has truly been a blessing to help children in need with the free kids lunch program held at Willow-Praise Church in Willowick every Monday and Friday from 11 a.m to 12:30. We also distribute free lunches at the Painesville Assembly of God every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 12,” Zuren added.