Project Noelle taking Christmas applications

SANDUSKY — Project Noelle — a charity in Ohio, Florida and North Carolina that helps children affected by the opioid overdose epidemic — has begun taking Christmas applications, said Keli Clark, the nonprofit's founder. The applications will remain open until Nov. 7, Clark said. The organization provides Christmas presents for kids up to age 17 in families affected by the epidemic. Applications are available at projectnoelle.com/christmas. Clark also announced Project Noelle is participating in a Red Ribbon Week event, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 21 at Campbell Christian Community Center, 1215 Campbell St., in Sandusky. Red Ribbon Week is aimed at encouraging kids to remain drug free. "This is an event geared towards kids and prevention. Dinner will be provided by the Campbell Christian Center, along with lots of information, education, face-painting and fun. Prizes for our coloring contest for younger kids and poster-making contest for older kids," Clark said. "Ohio National Guard's counterdrug program will be there with inflatables, and OHgo will be passing out pumpkins. There will also be an interactive presentation by Project Noelle and the Sandusky Police Department," she said. Perkins police, Firelands Health and the Erie County Health Department are among the other organizations that will be participating, Clark said.