If there is any doubt there are needy children in the area, Joe Richburg invites residents to come and read the letters received at his shop.

Richburg attended the Opp City Council meeting Monday morning and expressed his profound thanks to everyone within the city and community who has helped with his Christmas program for needy children.

Since 2010, J.R.’s Lawnmower Shop, in conjunction with WAMI and WOPP, has been receiving letters from community children in need outlining what they would like for Christmas.

This year, Richburg said they have exceeded the $5,000 they raised in their first year. Last year, they raised more than $14,000.

He said everything that goes into the program stays within the community.

The deadline to send a letter is Fri., Dec. 5, and winners will be announced by local media on Dec. 12.

Letters can be turned in to J.R.’s Lawnmower Shop. Those wishing to make contributions can make checks to Joe Richburg, and mail them to P.O. Box 329, Opp, AL 36467.