The Goodfellows are once again gearing up for its annual fund drive with the end goal of paying for a Christmas party for children on Dec. 20.
The Goodfellows tradition locally dates back to around 1940, when the party was started by five businessmen to hold a party for 50 to 60 children, said Richard Pendergraft, who with his brother Larry leads the effort each year now.
Now, the party supplies toys, clothes, candy and entertainment for 10 times the original number of children. Pendergraft said he expects this year’s party to serve 550-600 people.
Pendergraft, who got involved with the annual party in 1967, said the Goodfellows have not reached their monetary goal to pay for the party the past two years.
This year, the goal is once again to raise $35,000. Donations will start to be accepted on Nov. 23.
The party will be at South Middle School’s auditorium. It is 12:30-5 p.m. on Dec. 20.
The day before, on Dec. 19, volunteers gather at South for “sack day” when all the toys and clothes are placed in individual sacks that will be given to the children.
To donate, send checks to Henderson Goodfellows, PO Box 1711, Henderson, KY 42419. Or, checks can also be sent to the City of Henderson, P.O. Box 716, Henderson, KY 42419. Checks can also be dropped off at the city building bill payment area.
For more information or to volunteer, call Pendergraft at 270-860-7780.
