By Devna Bose

EAGLE Contributor

Parents and children braved the chilly temperatures Thursday afternoon to see Santa and share in the holiday spirit.

The community-wide party hosted by United Way saw Oxford residents, young and old, and many brought books and blankets to donate to the Oxford community.

“Donating to United Way is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to be able to give and to know that your money is at work,” Salley Agnew said. “You never know when you’re going to need help. It’s good to know that they’re here in Lafayette County.”

Shilpa Shirur brought her 3-year-old to the party and was thankful to United Way for hosting the event.

“For us, it’s a wonderful thing with a 3-year-old to have events like this, and we always look forward to something happening in the community,” she said.

Lauren Sanders was also happy to to bring her daughter to the event, and as a teacher, she is especially appreciative for the book drive.

“I’m a teacher so giving books means a lot to us,” she said. “What better way to see Santa and teach our daughter at a young age to give back to the community?”

United Way executive director Kurt Brummett donned a Santa hat throughout the afternoon and could be seen mingling with the Oxford residents who came to the holiday party.

”We had a great turn out. It was great seeing so many happy kids getting to see Santa and do crafts,” he said. “We’d like to thank all the parents and people that came through that donated blankets and books. I dropped off the blankets this morning, and Interfaith was overjoyed to receive them.”

Brummett was just glad that United Way was able to create a family-friendly event while serving the community.

“Anytime we get a chance to help those in our community, we are happy to do that.”