Project Santa wraps up a day early

Project Santa wrapped up on Saturday, a day early, according to organizer Marilyn Malkmus.

"We won't even need help on Monday because we'll be done today," she said of the work done every year to prepare for the Christmas season.

Malkmus said Douglas donors are providing toys for 786 children, down slightly from last year's total of 811.

"Every child has presents, a book, stocking stuffers, a stuffed animal, mittens and a cap and lots of love," Malkmus said.

Volunteers worked for four days to sort and wrap presents for Douglas County's needy families.

In it's 20th year, Project Santa serves children of Carson Valley Community Food Closet families, who are approved by Douglas County and Washoe Tribal social service departments, children of Family Support Council families who are approved by their case workers, children in the Court Appointed Special Advocate program of Douglas County approved by their caseworkers with assistance from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.

Gifts are gathered through Angel Trees at businesses around Carson Valley. Warm winter clothing is also gathered and donated.