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Light Up The Dark holiday drive a success

ESCANABA -- Northern Lights Child Advocacy Center and Nicolet Bank are pleased to announce the resounding success of the first Light Up The Dark Holiday Gift Drive.

From Nov. 17 to Dec. 17, community members and patrons embraced the spirit of giving at participating Nicolet Bank locations in Marquette, Ishpeming, Manistique, and Escanaba, each of which had their own giving trees with 25 ornaments and wishlists with the child's age. The project included children from birth up to age 18 who are survivors of unthinkable, such as physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or human trafficking.

The Marquette, Ishpeming, and Manistique community showed their generosity and care and purchased gifts for 73 local children and teens who otherwise would have gone without this holiday season.

All donated gifts will be distributed to youth in Manistique, Ishpeming, and throughout Marquette County through Marquette County's children's advocacy center, Northern Lights, and, in Escanaba through Delta Regional Child Advocacy Center.

Sarah Zyburt, Executive Director of Northern Lights Child Advocacy Center, shared a warm thanks to Nicolet Bank, especially Tia Rodda, and to neighbors and community members who have given and supported the drive.

"It's incredibly touching to see this level of community support for our kids," said Zyburt, prior to Christmas. "We are blown away by the turnout, especially considering this is the first year for the holiday gift drive. I know we're all eager to get these gifts in the hands of kiddos for the holidays. We are honored by Nicolet Bank's partnership – always for the kids."

For those who may have missed out on the opportunity to participate in the "Light up the Dark Holiday Gift Drive" but would still like to contribute to brightening the lives of children affected by abuse, visit the Delta Regional Child Advocacy Center website at www.deltaregionalcac.org or the Northern Lights Child Advocacy Center's website at ­northernlightscac.org.