Paula Brown, the Gift of Years co-chair at the First Christian Church in Weirton, presented Squishmallow toys and a monetary donation Weirton Elementary School’s Community in Schools Coordinator Kristin Bowman-Cross Dec. 16. Bowman-Cross found that giving students who have improved their attendance the opportunity to grab a toy from the claw machine at school drastically improved their showing up every day — a key part of a successful education. Brown, along with Janet Ford, spoke to the congregation at the church, encouraging them to contribute to the project. Members donated 53 Squishmallows to be used in the claw machine as an incentive for improved attendance. Church members and their pastor, the Rev. Mark Mayer, said they are happy to support the children living in their community. Those taking part in the program were, from left, Brown, Dakota Card, Presley Fidler and Bowman-Cross.

— Contributed