Ryegate Santa is a local charity that has been in operation for the past 25 years. Marie Winchester, a longtime volunteer stated, “Ryegate Santa is a group of community members who make sure that the children who live in Ryegate and their families have Christmas dinner and gifts for the children. This is for families who have fallen on hard times.”  The process starts in October  when Winchester, with the help of BMU staff, puts together a list of needy families. The group then finds sponsors to donate gifts, gift cards, money, wrapping paper, bows, ribbon, etc. They also contact the White Market in St. Johnsbury to arrange for holiday meals.  The turkey dinner meal includes a 14-16 lb. turkey, stuffing, potatoes, carrots, butternut squash, apples, cranberry sauce, rolls, & gravy and costs about $35.  All names are kept confidential.  If you would like to help, please contact Marie Winchester at [email protected].