It's hard to believe...Christmas is just 3 months away from yesterday.
But with the economy the way it has been, one Tri-state man is hoping to make Christmas a bit brighter for some area families.
But he needs your help.
Jack Bailey of Rushville retired last year, but now he's taking on a new career as the city's resident Santa Claus.
Every day he dons a beard and creates hand made doll cradles and jewelry boxes.
Bailey also refurbishes old toys ranging from bikes and trikes to trucks and electric trains.
All this work is done here in the workshop on Rushville's town square, where children can watch 'Santa' doing what he does best.
And here's the best part, these gifts will arrive in style. Santa and his wife Mrs. Claus will hand deliver these gifts in person just in time for Christmas.
What's your favorite part?
Bailey said, "The smiles."
Bailey says he saw the need when he was Santa at a local Walmart...now he's the real deal.
Bailey said, "With the economy the way it is and people losing their jobs, I can see it happening more and more."
Children in need are identified by local churches.
Bailey needs your help to help his work along...now so he has enough materials before Christmas.
If you would like to donate used toys or lumber to build his homemade toys, drop them off at Santa's Workshop at 115 North Liberty Street in Rushville or call (217) 491-3639.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKHQA