More than 170 children will benefit from this year’s Opp Community Christmas.

This year, the Opp Benevolence Fund and employees of JR’s Lawnmower Shop teamed up to spread Christmas cheer a little farther this holiday season.

In years past, Joe Richburg, owner of JR’s Lawnmower Shop, has been giving away Christmas presents and money through his Christmas for Children in 2010 and the Opp Benevolence Fund has always sponsored Community Christmas.

This year’s program was for children 12 and under and for children in Opp, Babbie, Onycha and even the city of Andalusia.

“We are in full blast right now,” Richburg said. “We have the presents at the Chamber of Commerce right now and we are distributing to families. The Gideons are also giving out Bibles and we have some churches witnessing.”

Richburg said donations are still needed and are greatly appreciated.

He also said the mission couldn’t be accomplished without the number of volunteers who have stepped up and the ladies in his offices.

“I appreciate their help very much,” he said.

Local merchants and residents who wish to donate money, are asked to call Richburg at 493-9645.