By ODS communications

This year, the Oxford School District celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Charger Christmas Kids program, which helps provide Christmas gifts to OSD families in need.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of dedicated community members, more than 180 families and over 525 children were served this year.

The Charger Christmas Kids program was founded 10 years ago by Tara Denevan, a parent in the OSD.

Originally, this began as an operation called “Charge for Christmas,” which provided for 11 children that first year. This program has since developed into Charger Christmas Kids.

Since its establishment, this program has grown tremendously and would not be possible without the support of parents, district employees, local businesses and so many more.

The University of Mississippi’s Facilities Management Department allowed the Charger Christmas Kids program to use the space at the former JCPenney building in the Jackson Avenue Center.

For its 10th anniversary, in addition to the gifts for children, the Charger Christmas Kids program expanded its efforts to include a laundry basket filled with essential household items—including laundry detergent, dish soap, shampoo, paper towels, and more—to every single family it served.

“The Oxford School District is deeply grateful for all the volunteers and donors who have made this program possible for the past decade,” said Camille White, communications specialist. “The sense of community, kindness, and compassion that this program fosters leaves a lasting impact on the families it serves.”