Polk County Operation Christmas Child will host its annual kick-off event Saturday, Aug. 6 at Gibson Park Pool from 5-7 p.m. The event will include free swimming for the entire family.

Coordinators invite community members to come and learn more about Operation Christmas Child, the world’s largest children’s Christmas projects. Many of the children who benefit from the program are dealing with difficulties such as poverty, disease, famine, war or natural disaster, and shoe box gifts can provide a ray of hope in a child’s life.

Hot dogs, chips and drinks will also be available for a small fee. For more information, email Judy Jackson at wwwjudy@bellsouth.net or call 828-625-1409.

– article submitted by Judy Jackson