In the 11 years since she was killed in a car accident, Megan Williams continues having an impact on less fortunate families.
And that is exactly why her family and friends continue raising money and donations every year for Megan’s Fund, a charity that gives toys and clothing to children in need.
“It means a lot to me to be able to continue it going,” said Rachel Cline, who runs the charity along with Megan’s mother, Cheryl Waterman.
“It’s so cool to see how many people continue to be touched and continue to learn about Megan’s legacy and what all she did in the short time she was here.”
Williams, a Center Grove student, was killed in a car accident in 2005 while she was out shopping for toys for children shortly before Christmas. As a way to honor her, Cline and Waterman created Megan’s Fund, which finds sponsors for needy children so they’ll have gifts at Christmas.
So far this year, they have nearly 70 children with sponsors, but are always looking for more, Cline said.
They work through helping organizations in both Johnson and Marion counties, who give them information about the children from families in need. Megan’s Fund then pairs those children up with sponsors, and collects general donations that can go to the ones who don’t have a sponsor, Cline said.
Their goal is to get two or three outfits and two or three toys for each child, Cline said.
“We want to make sure they have something on Christmas morning,” she said.
The charity has grown each year, from helping about 30 children in its first year to 80 last year.
This year, some of their sponsors for children come from families who received help in the past, she said.
“These people had no connection to Megan, but now feel connected to the organization and program,” she said.
And they hope to see the program continue to grow, she said. They will continue to accept sponsors and donations for the next few weeks.
They plan to deliver donations to the families on Dec. 14, so would like to have all donations by then, Cline said.
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Megan’s Fund is seeking sponsors and donations. Here is a look at how you can help:
Become a sponsor: Send an email to [email protected] to be paired up with a child in need.
Donate: You can donate clothing and toys to be given to children by dropping them off at Urban Euphoria, 450 S. State Road 135, Suite C, Greenwood, or Greene’s Auto Service South, 976 S. Morgantown Road, Greenwood. Cash donations will be accepted at Chase Bank locations.
Fundraiser: Megan’s Fund is hosting a fundraising event from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 4 at Southern Bowl, 1010 U.S. 31, Greenwood. Cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children and includes two games and shoe rental. Those participating are encouraged to wear their ugliest Christmas sweaters.
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