Putnam County Giving Tree begins its work in November

The Putnam County Giving Tree will soon be ready to accept applications. In the meantime, the Giving Tree is preparing to purchase the many gifts it will donate to families across the county with an indoor corn hole tournament on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 1 p.m.

The tournament will feature prizes for first and second place, door prizes, baked goods and other concessions. The event will take place at the Little Dude Ranch, U.S 231 N. in Greencastle.

Teams must pay $20 to enter and entries for teams must be given by Thursday, Nov. 3. Forms and fees can be dropped off at the Sheriff's Department or Shuee and Sons.

The proceeds will help the Giving Tree, as will other fundraising events throughout the year, but the need is expected to be far greater than before, said Giving Tree President Ruth Myers.

Last year the program helped 225 families with about 900 children and this year they are helping even more. With total families close to 250, the group has depended more than ever on financial donations from families and local businesses. They have gotten that support and more from sources such as Dixie Chopper, DePauw University, Greencastle Christian Church and many other businesses and groups.

To be eligible for assistance from the Giving Tree, families must reside in Putnam County or have children that attend a Putnam County school, have full custody of their children and receive federal, state or local financial assistance.

Children must be under the age of 18 or still in high school to receive benefits from the Giving Tree. Applications are determined by need through county school counselors and teachers.

For more information, contact Ruth Myers, president, at 658-4029 or Terry Bruner, secretary, at 658-4362.