Full load Bob Walton of rural Delphi gets his box filled with food by Heather Fuller of Camden during the annual Christmas Baskets project at the Delphi Armory. Comet photo by Chris Parker A 23-year-old tradition, which began with Delphi area churches, continues to grow today. In 1982, through prayer and love, in response to the gift of Christ, Christmas Baskets, Inc. was born.

The idea to help the needy became a reality when the Delphi Ministerial Association requested donations from the public to help less fortunate families. Rev. Ellis Gasser, who helped form the organization said, “There was no money, we did it on faith.”

The project began as a joint venture between area churches, including Delphi Presbyterian, Delphi United Methodist, and St. Joseph Catholic Church, various civic groups, school children, businesses, and individuals. That first year, 128 families were helped. In 2004, over 300 families benefited from the program.

Rev. Gasser and Mrs. Paul Fife served as co-chairpersons that first year and spearheaded the project. They were assisted by Don Willy, who served as treasurer; Carolyn Oliver, purchasing; Jean Willy, Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Wilson, and Presbyterian Youth, organized toys; Pastor Don Greer, box chairman; and Rev. Donald Ashley, who was in charge of publicity.

Mrs. Jim Cripe, Millie McGrew, and Rev. Gasser, coordinated the requests that first year. Under the leadership of Marcia Sledd, the United Presbyterian Women organized the packing and assembling of Christmas boxes.

The theme that first year came from Philippians 4:19-20, “My God will supply every need of yours according to the riches in Glory of Christ Jesus…”

Christmas Baskets Inc. is still a joint venture between those same churches, although the Church of the Brethren has joined and is now instrumental.

And while the names of the organizers may have changed some, the mission is still the same, to help needy families

have a more meaningful and merry Christmas.