The Junior League of Gainesville will transform on Saturday Gainesville’s Trinity United Methodist Church into a store where everything is free for its annual Miracle on Main Street event.
Families with vouchers provided by a community agency can collect items including toys, diapers and wipes, used clothes and pantry items. Junior League members will act as personal shoppers, assisting families throughout the shopping experience.
Last year, the Junior League carried out the annual event in a drive-thru format instead of an in-person experience. Undeterred by changes, they served 740 children from 240 families, providing 2,346 toys, 586 clothing articles, 240 pantry bags and 187 baby products.
This year, they will keep the drive-thru format used in 2020. With fewer restrictions on social distancing, there will be an area arranged with used clothes where attendees can shop in person, free of charge.
Established in 1935, Gainesville’s Junior League is as a member of the Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc., a non-profit organization committed to community service and female empowerment. The organization endeavors to enhance Alachua County through civic leadership, approaching food insecurity and hosting charitable events.
Serving her third year as co-chair of the Miracle on Main Street committee, Becca Roberts feels rewarded with another opportunity to implement the event and help hundreds of local families during the holidays.
“Although the format continues to change due to safety and space precautions, the League is proud to continue this event for the 31st year,” Roberts said, “We are just excited to provide gifts and food to local families.”
Donations are accepted through 5 p.m., on Dec. 3 at 5346 SW 91st Terrace in Gainesville.
As a closing push to gather last-minute contributions, the Thomas Group will host a holiday-themed celebration, Light The Village, on Dec. 3, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. In addition to holiday music and festive cocktails, the gingerbread house-themed office will have areas for children to create their Christmas lists, drink hot chocolate and take pictures with Santa.
People can also contribute by purchasing from a selection of items at the Junior League of Gainesville Community Action Wishlist.
Miracle on Main Street is staffed solely by Junior League members. An active member of JLG for seven years, currently serving as president of the organization, Lacie Klann said that Miracle of Main Street would not have happed for the past 30 years without the over 300 women volunteers.
“I’m incredibly proud of the women of the Junior League of Gainesville, who have rallied once again during this pandemic to ensure that the needs of local families here in our community are met,” Klann said.