The Friends of Coal Ladies Auxiliary is working to make the holidays a little brighter for 26 families in Fayette and Raleigh counties as part of its “Giving Hearts” project.

Chairwoman Regina Fairchild said the project originated as a way for the auxiliary to give back to the community.

“The organization is not just about educating children and adults about the good of coal, but it’s also a way to give back to the community, and as a way to let people know we care,” she said.

In selecting the recipients, the auxiliary turned to The Salvation Army, which provided a list of eight families that could use a helping hand this Christmas.

“It grew from eight to 15, 20 and 26,” Fairchild said, explaining the auxiliary is doing its best to make sure it helps everyone it can and has plans of expanding to include 100 families next year.

Each family provided the organization with a “wish list,” which included three requests from each family member.

For the past month, auxiliary members have been shopping, trying their best to purchase each item on the lists, as well as purchasing clothing items — including coats — for each family member.

In addition to the gifts, each family will receive a complete Christmas dinner.

Currently, members are sorting the items and will begin delivering the packages Monday.

Fairchild, along with members Julia Long and Carol Roles, said they believe it is important for anyone who has the ability to give back.

“We just really want to show people out there that we care,” Roles said. “It makes us stronger people when we help others.”

Fairchild added, “Everybody needs to be touched by somebody.”

Although she says she hopes the project spreads the message that there are people who care, Fairchild says she has also learned from the process.

“It’s been a touching, learning experience,” she said, adding the support and assistance the auxiliary has received along the way are immeasurable. “The overwhelming response of people joining has just been great.”

Long agreed, adding, “It’s amazing how people in the community have come forth.”

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Fairchild said Giving Hearts would not be possible without the support of the following sponsors:

Hometown Subaru; Green Valley plant members; Patience Coal; Terex SHM; Chateaux Interiors; West Virginia Coal Recovery; Baylor Mining; Nell Jean Enterprises Inc.; Jack and Cheryl Fairchild; Raleigh Mine and Industry Supply Inc.; Highland Machinery; Myrleen Fairchild; Black Diamond Trucking; Black Diamond Coal; Songer Insurance; Mountaineer Insurance; and the Friends of Coal Ladies Auxiliary.

Also, Fairchild said the following donors have played an important role:

Flowers By Nancy, Kroger in Beaver, Beckley Kmart and Beckley Wal-Mart.

— E-mail:

mjames@register-herald.com