DEC Brings Christmas Cheer to Local Children

For many children, there's nothing quite as exciting as Christmas morning — waking up to a day filled with family and friends and a pile of presents under the tree. Unfortunately, not every child shares in this kind of experience during the holidays. That's why DEC partnered with Children's Choice to ensure that 37 children across our service territory have something to open, and to smile about, on Christmas Day. Founded in 1982, the Children's Choice organization was established by Reverend Doctor William and Doctor Carolyn Eberwein. Through their work and social service efforts, they committed themselves to helping children and families in need. Today, there are 13 chapters of Children's Choice across Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, each doing their part to provide at-risk children with a better foundation for their future. 2024 marks the Co-op's 18th year of working with Children's Choice, and DEC's Teresa McCann, who serves as the Co-op's Children's Choice Coordinator, says assisting the organization in its important work is one of her and her coworkers' favorite parts of the Christmas season. "Since 2006 our employees have participated in and supported this cause by shopping for gifts for children in need. We are each thankful to be able to bring some happiness to those that might otherwise not enjoy the holidays — for us, it's the best way to celebrate the season of giving."