During a recent government meeting, community leaders presented a funding request for Operation Rudolph, a volunteer-driven initiative in Jefferson County that provides gifts to underprivileged children during the holiday season. Kim Smith and Christine Geit, representing the program, highlighted the significant volunteer efforts, noting that over 2,500 hours were contributed, including substantial participation from local youth.

The duo requested a funding match from the county, similar to the support received from local cities, which included $25,100 from Madras and $500 from Metolias. They proposed a total funding request of $35,100, emphasizing the program's reliance on community involvement and the importance of ensuring that all children in need are served without overlap in assistance.

The commissioners expressed their support for the initiative, acknowledging the program's impact and the community's investment in its success. After a brief discussion, a motion was made and unanimously approved to allocate $35,100 to Operation Rudolph for the upcoming year.

The meeting also touched on the collaborative efforts between Operation Rudolph and other local organizations, including the Red Cross, to provide additional support during emergencies, showcasing the program's commitment to serving the broader community. The commissioners encouraged ongoing engagement and communication with local leaders to ensure the program's continued success and outreach.