United Way, Chamber of Commerce team up for Christmas donations

If you missed an opportunity to take part in Giving Tuesday, don't fret; there is still time to give back to the community through several organizations. The United Way of Big Spring and Howard County and the Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce are offering a couple different options to donate. “Winter weather is fast approaching and there are those who are in need of a way to stay warm. We know our community is great about giving, in all situations, and we are looking for those who are willing to donate a new coat,” Christian Fair, United Way of Big Spring and Howard County Executive Director, said. Donations for the Winter Coat Drive are being accepted through Dec. 8 and can be dropped off at the United Way Office located at 215 W. Third. Coats of all sizes - infant to senior citizens - are welcome. “We encourage our community to take a moment and donate a bit of warmth this year and help local families prepare for winter,” Fair said. According to Fair, once the coats are collected they will be distributed among the partner agencies as needed and throughout the community. The Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce is also hosting the 12th annual Toy Drive through Dec. 8. “We are reaching out to the community to help us fill the Chamber,” Debbye Valverde, Executive Director of the Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce, said. New and unwrapped toys, books, art supplies, board games, ear pods, stuffed animals and more are accepted. In addition, toiletries, winter coats, fuzzy blankets and socks are also accepted. “We are collecting toys for all ages. We want to make sure that the little ones are thought of, but we can't forget that our teenagers still need the magic of Christmas as well,” Valverde said. Valverde added, “We have already had some great partners in our community drop toys off, but we still need more. We have several agencies that will benefit from these donations.” According to Valverde, donations will be distributed to CASA, United Way, The Salvation Army, West Texas Centers, and The Howard County Children's Advocacy Center. Donations for both of these drives are appreciated, according to Fair and Valverde. Those wanting to make monetary donations are also welcome to do so. More information can be obtained by calling 432-263-7641. The United Way Office and Chamber Office are both located at