Centers make thousands warmer this winter

BUNDLING UP — At left, Rebekah Cohen Morris, executive director of the Aim Women’s Center, and Bobbyjon Bauman, executive director of the Sycamore Youth Center, combined efforts once again and donated holiday winter apparel to needy children and families during the holiday season. The distribution was made possible by a grant awarded by AEP for the centers’ Bundle Up for Christmas program. At right, those assisting during the distributions have included, from left, Michaela Nee, Christina Bernardini of Aim and Bauman. -- Contributed
STEUBENVILLE — In a heartwarming display of community spirit and generosity, the Aim Women’s Center and the Sycamore Youth Center teamed up to provide warmth and joy to hundreds of local residents this holiday season.
The Bundle Up for Christmas project was made possible through a grant awarded by American Electric Power, according to Bobbyjon Bauman, executive director of the Sycamore center.
The organizations were able to distribute coats, jackets, gloves, hats and scarves to area residents who are in need this winter, making a significant impact on the lives of Ohio Valley children and families.
The Aim Women’s Center held its giveaway event Dec. 23, providing warmth and comfort to 105 individuals. Jackets, boots, gloves, scarves and hats were distributed, ensuring that families stayed warm during these frigid winter months. The event was filled with festive cheer, according to Rebekah Cohen Morris, executive director of the center.
In addition to the apparel giveaway, clients decorated gingerbread cookies, had the opportunity to meet with Santa Claus and were treated to a special appearance by some cheerful elves who brought joy to the hearts of children in attendance.

Aim RNC-OB Nurse Manager Christina Bernardini expressed her gratitude for the grant, stating, “We are truly blessed to have received a Bundle Up grant from AEP. This allowed us to provide warmth and comfort to 105 people at the Aim Women’s Center. It is a privilege to serve our community and help keep our clients and their families warm during this season. We are grateful for the opportunity to be a vessel of kindness and support, and we give thanks for the generosity that makes this possible.”
The Sycamore Youth Center distributed jackets, gloves, hats and scarves to more than 150 children at East Garfield Elementary School on Dec. 20. The event marked yet another highlight in a busy month for the center.
Sycamore partnered with the Aim center earlier in December and distributed more than 1,000 coats to children in area schools. The coat giveaway was a joint effort in collaboration with the Family Children First Council and the Salvation Army of Steubenville, Bauman said.
Morris expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, “We were thrilled to partner with a number of local agencies who have a heart for children and for the Lord.”
Bauman echoed her sentiments, saying, “I was blessed to work with so many people who gave of their time and talent to make sure our area children stayed warm this Christmas season.”
In addition to effots made in the clothing distribution, those with Sycamore hosted an Old Fashioned Country Christmas event Dec. 9. Gifts were provided to approximately 100 children, Bauman noted, adding that he sends his appreciation to AEP officials, as well.
“We truly appreciated the generosity of AEP in giving toward the needs of our area children this Advent season,” he commented.
These events highlight the meaningful impact of community collaboration, as area organizations and individuals worked together to meet those who have critical needs during the holidays.
By providing winter essentials and creating memorable moments for families, the centers demonstrated the strength and compassion of the Steubenville community, ensuring that no child or family was left out in the cold this Christmas.
- BUNDLING UP — At left, Rebekah Cohen Morris, executive director of the Aim Women’s Center, and Bobbyjon Bauman, executive director of the Sycamore Youth Center, combined efforts once again and donated holiday winter apparel to needy children and families during the holiday season. The distribution was made possible by a grant awarded by AEP for the centers’ Bundle Up for Christmas program. At right, those assisting during the distributions have included, from left, Michaela Nee, Christina Bernardini of Aim and Bauman. — Contributed