Oklahomans provide Christmas in February

By Jennifer Pierce, NEWS 9

Some Oklahomans are celebrating Christmas in February.

The Christmas Connection in the metro opened its doors Friday and Saturday to those who missed out because of the December ice storm.

It's a place where the holidays are celebrated year round. Everyone is in the giving spirit and you can always find a friendly smile.

"It's such a wonderful blessing to me to be able to do this," Christmas Connection volunteer, Della Decker said.

Decker loves to help shoppers find just what they need.

She and dozens of other Christmas Connection volunteers gave up their Saturday to help those who couldn't shop in December.

The ice storm didn't stop the organization from handing out toys and clothes to kids, but it did prevent the adults from getting their presents.

"The adult clothes were down here in the dark and in the cold, so they decided they would have another opportunity to give out these products," Decker said.

"I'm shopping for myself, last time I shopped for my grandkids," shopper Gene Stratton said.

Gene Stratton finishes up his Christmas shopping with the help of a volunteer. Shoppers can choose from an assortment of household items and gently used clothes, bagging as much as they need.

"Yesterday I saw a lady with like 24 bags and was really heart-warming to see," Decker said.

Saturday was the last day of shopping until May 1.

The organization is always in need of volunteers to sort and stock shelves. They need pots, pans, dishes, silverware, small appliances and furniture.