In the state of Georgia there are several thousand citizens living in Georgia’s six hospitals and community-based housing serving persons with developmental disabilities and behavioral health needs. Many of these patients have little, if any, contact with or support from friends or family.

Fifty-three years ago, in 1958, the Georgia Municipal Association and then Governor Ernest Vandiver created the Mayors’ Christmas Motorcade to help these patients celebrate Christmas by providing each with a present. The staff at the regional hospitals tells us that without the Mayors’ Christmas Motorcade, many patients would go without any type of gift or recognition during the holidays.

The city of Rincon has started its gift collection campaign and is asking for your help. The hospital clients are part of the community, drawn from a region, and encourages all of you to remember them this holiday season. If your school, church, business or civic group would like to participate in an outstanding holiday community project, contact Wanda Hendrix at 826-5745 for further information on how you can get involved.