Mineola Caring & Sharing closed out its 2022 campaign Monday with the annual meeting and volunteer recognition at the First Methodist Church Ministry Center.

The program served 251 registered families and another 11 who showed up on distribution day two weeks before Christmas.

Roy Shockey said there are more families who need Caring & Sharing’s assistance, and he hopes to see the number served increase to 300 next Christmas.

Some 34 families registered online, and steps to encourage more online sign ups are planned, including adding a Spanish translation on the back of the solicitation letter.

New directors were elected including Janell Abbott, Cindy Dromgoole, Eric Hayes, Joel Moore and Shockey.

During committee reports it was noted that no fundraisers were held in conjunction with local restaurants, since when the campaign began a year ago, there were still concerns about COVID-19 illness. Those promotions may be able to resume this year.

The first-time car show during the Iron Horse Festival in September was a big success and is planned to be bigger and better in 2023. It was a good fundraiser. The entry fee will be expanded to include a new toy.

Another good fundraiser is the annual KMOO radio auction, and a request for assistance with contacting merchants for items to donate needs more participation.

Proceeds from the sale of raffle tickets at Brookshire’s was down and may be better organized next time.

The grocery chain was complimented for its donation of boxes used for distribution, as well as its assistance with groceries.

Another area where donations are down is church contributions.

The Mineola schools canned food drive went well.

During distribution week, some 120 volunteers pitched in to see that all the items were distributed.

The Gideons distributed 300 Bibles during the event.

The Angel Trees numbered around 350 children receiving gifts.