by Dawn Varner, Massillon Ward Primary President
The Primary Presidency of the Massillon Ward wanted to have a Christmas activity that involved the children in some type of service – ideally, a “children helping children” activity. They learned of an activity the New Portage Branch had done last year for the International Institute of Akron where they assembled activity kits for refugee children. It sounded like the perfect activity for the Massillon Ward Primary and one that could be done on Sunday during sharing time. When Bishop Taylor heard what the Primary was planning to do, he wanted to open it up for the entire ward. So at 6 p.m. on Sunday, December 10th, the Massillon Ward gathered for a Christmas party and assembled activity kits for refugee children.
Ward members donated items and the Primary used their remaining budget to purchase additional items. The Primary Presidency made sure that none of the items had Christmas or religious pictures or stories. Great care was taken so that activity kits would not offend anyone’s religious beliefs.
Each kit consisted of a 2-gallon Ziploc bag which included — 1 coloring/activity book, 1 pack of crayons, 1 pen or marker, 2 storybooks, 2 games or toys, 1 treat, 1 car or truck, and 1 stuffed toy. Fifty-six kits were assembled and leftover items were donated to Salt Box Ministries in Canal Fulton.
In order to make the kits more personal for the children, a Primary photo was taken the week before which showed the children of the Massillon Ward holding “WELCOME!” signs. Using that photo, the children (and some adults) made cards for the kits with the group Primary picture on the front of the card and colored block “WELCOME!” letters on the inside of the card. They added their name and age and put the card in a bright-colored envelope before inserting it into the activity kit. After the kits were assembled, Bishop Taylor furnished cookies, cider, and hot chocolate for ward members.
The refugee kits were delivered to the International Institute of Akron the next day, December 11th. When refugee families come through the International Institute of Akron the adults are required to go through a lengthy 3-day orientation process.
The children, who have not yet been enrolled in school, have nothing to do. The activity kits will give the children something to occupy their time while their parents are in meetings.
Akron Ohio Stake News 