Donations of canned goods needed

Destin’s Mission Love Seeds has partnered with The Fort Walton Beach High School Viking Leadership for the 15th annual Christmas Connection to provide a Christmas or holiday to families in Okaloosa County and surrounding areas who cannot afford to do so. Last year, the Leadership classes raised more than $35,000 and helped 83 families, including 204 children.

Families, recommended by guidance counselors, will be provided with 10 days worth of meals, gifts for every child, a special Christmas or holiday dinner, and other necessities such as utility bills and maintenance for each family.

Collection boxes for canned foods are at Dollar General locations in Destin, Sandestin and Santa Rosa Beach; The Fashion Exchange on U.S. 98; and The Destin Log, 35008 Emerald Coast Parkway, Suite 501, across from Bass Pro Shops.

To give a monetary gift or gift card, make check payable to Fort Walton Beach High School, with Christmas Connection in top left corner. Mail to FWBHS, 400 Hollywood Blvd., Fort Walton Beach FL 32548. For information, call 833-3300, ext. 1811 or 621-7709.