FERRIDAY, La. – Ferriday native Chris Vaughan said his work with the Concordia Christmas Charity Fund is a way for him to give back to his hometown.

&uot;This gives me an even greater feel for being part of the community,&uot; he said.

Concordia Parish business leaders began the fund about 14 years ago with major support from the Ferriday Chamber of Commerce.

The program provides toys and food to families in the parish at Christmas on the basis of need.

Vaughan, who works at Vaughan City Drug Store with his father, Arthur Vaughan, became involved with the effort three years ago because of his involvement with the chamber.

This year he is serving as co-chairman along with the Rev. Freddie Schiele. He basically took on the job because the agency had the need for a new co-chairman.

&uot;It just kind of fell to me really,&uot; Vaughan said.

But he gets satisfaction out of the work. &uot;Definitely helping the people is what I enjoy doing,&uot; he said.

It also makes him grateful for his blessings to realize how some people have a difficult time financially.

&uot;You walk away from something like that and you realize just how good you have it,&uot; he said.

The fund-raiser lasts throughout the year with planning beginning in October, Vaughan said.

Recently, Vaughan said he has spent a great deal of time sorting applications and working out details for buying the food and making sure local stores will carry all the needed toys for the various ages of children.

Vaughan admits the job is time consuming and takes a great deal of effort.

&uot;It’s been kind of tough, but it will be worth it in the end,&uot; he said.

This year the agency plans to serve 235 families.

Anyone wishing to make donations to the Concordia Christmas Charity Fund can do so at any bank in Concordia Parish.