Local

Hebron Lodge Holds Annual Christmas Party

Dec 26, 2018

Some of the Hebron Lodge members as well as the children who attended the Annual Christmas Party Saturday afternoon gather together in the toy room area, where children excitedly selected a toy/gift of their choice.

By Jennifer L. Warren

BEACON – Atiyana Witford knew she wanted a very special toy; she just wasn’t exactly sure which one.

That changed quickly when she very carefully surveyed the table of toys at 22 West Center Street in Beacon. Sitting in the box was a colorful gift, just what she was seeking.

“I was so happy to get this toy today,” explained the smiling five year old Witford, as she clutched her new doll. “She has moveable arms, and that’s something I don’t have in any of my dolls.”

Witford’s friend, Bryan Hunt, was also pleased with his selection, an army toy with the insignia “Rampage Movie” on the outside of the box.

Both children were on hand Saturday afternoon at the City of Beacon location, attending the Hebron Lodge Annual Christmas Party. A popular event tracing back more than 50 years, the Party included food, music and of course a “Toy Giveaway.” The 107 year old Hebron Lodge, which has brought on board several new members this past year, is dedicated to giving back to the community.

Some of the children who were on hand Saturday afternoon for the annual Hebron Lodge Christmas Party play with the toys they selected as gifts after eating a holiday lunch.

“Events like the one today are something we are committed to doing as much as possible, especially when it involves the children,” said Douglas Bell, Worshipful Master, who has been a Lodge member for 12 years. “It’s pretty amazing when you see the children stand in front of the toy table and really take their time picking out that one thing they really want for Christmas.”

Throughout the early afternoon hours, children, along with their families-friends, could be seen inside 22 West Center Street laughing, playing with toys, eating lunch, and simply enjoying the holiday season.

“This is our way of telling the community we are here for them,” said Past Master Frank McRae, as he watched them. “It’s also a way to show love at Christmas time.”

In addition to the Annual Christmas Party, the Hebron Lodge also hosts an Annual Thanksgiving Dinner event the Saturday before the actual holiday. On this day, throughout Beacon, they personally deliver dinners, composed of multiple tasty, traditional dishes, to residents in need. An Easter Egg Hunt has also been part of their giving back mission in years past.