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Santa visited some area families a little early this year, as they received gifts at the Claiborne Hunger Ministry last week.

The ministry participates in the Angel Tree program each year, and they take local applications. Families are asked to list what the children want for Christmas and the Angel Tree program tries to fulfill those wishes.

Volunteers gave their time on Wednesday to deliver a truckload full of gifts to the Hunger Ministry, thanks to the Angel Tree program.

“We’re so thankful for what they do for us each year,” said Marie Noe, the coordinator for the Claiborne Hunger Ministry.

Volunteers at the Claiborne Hunger Ministry helped unload and sort the gifts on Wednesday. Several volunteers handed out the gifts on Thursday to some happy people.

More than 300 children were given their wishes this Christmas.

The Claiborne Hunger Ministry is open each Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., giving out food to anyone who walks in and asks.

“It doesn’t matter who they are,” said Noe. “We help anyone who asks for help.”

Unfortunately, because the organization operates solely on donations, the amount of food they are able to give out might vary from week to week. One recent week the recipients received a loaf of bread, one can of vegetables, an onion and some cereal.

Some area churches make regular donations.

Last year’s class of Leadership Claiborne Youth raised funds to purchase freezers for the ministry.

“We are thankful for any support,” said Noe, “and any donation is appreciated.”