Christmas decorations to be given away

Perry area residents in financial need will be able to acquire free Christmas decorations during an upcoming event at Perry Center of Lake County.

The center’s Perry Christmas Shop will be open from 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 7. Residents who visit between those hours can select items that include artificial Christmas trees, wreaths, ornaments, lights, books and other decor.

While all of the goods are being offered at no cost, shoppers are invited to make a cash donation to support Perry Center of Lake County.

Located at 4261 Manchester Road in Perry Village, the center is a food pantry and Salvation Army Unit that provides charitable services in the Perry community.

Earlier this year, the center was able to establish its Christmas Shop and stock it with an array of yuletide-related commodities collected by an area business.

The Painted Plank, which is based in Perry Township, conducted a Christmas Decoration Donation Drive in late December and early January.

“We know there are families struggling and unable to provide the extras they wish they could,” Painted Plank owner Lauren Kowalewski said when she launched the campaign. “Our goal is to provide these families with Christmas decor, so they too can experience the joy of Christmas with their children throughout the holiday season.”

Kowalewski requested contributions of only new or gently used items. She also asked that any objects with mechanical or electrical components be in good working condition.

The business owner’s appeal drew an overwhelming response.

“We received an abundance of items — more than we need,” she said, emphasizing that no donations are being accepted at this time.

Perry Center of Lake County allowed families to take home some of the yuletide decorations at a recent Christmas in July event that also distributed gifts to children.

Even if families can’t attend the Aug. 7 event, they won’t be shut out from securing decorations in time for the 2021 Christmas season.

“We’ll also have more (decoration shopping) dates in November and December,” Kowalewski said.

Residents can stay informed about future dates and times of operation for the Perry Christmas Shop by following the Facebook pages of The Painted Plank and Perry Center of Lake County.

The Painted Plank specializes in refinishing kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, furniture and recreational vehicles.

SUBMITTED Lauren Kowalewski, right, enjoys a moment with her husband Corwin Zavilla, during the 2020 Christmas season.