Champions of Change
M. Rebecca Linton has lived her entire life in Martinsburg, WV. She responded to a desperate appeal in 2006 when the Dept. of Human Services did not have the resources to provide Christmas presents for 164 children whose families had fallen victim to layoffs and reduced income. Due to the overwhelming success following the Christmas Cash for Kids fundraiser, the following year Rebecca Linton was asked by the United Way to chair the event annually and continues to earn the necessary support to serve an ever increasing need. Christmas Cash for Kids continues to grow each year. From serving 164 children at is start in 2006 to 768 in 2010. The program serves children from birth to sixteen. Each child receives an outfit and a toy. All money raised is divided between the number of children to determine the amount that is spent each year. The main objective of the Christmas Cash for Kids program is to provide Christmas gifts to children who otherwise may not receive anything for Christmas.