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Time For A Holiday Alternative

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By JAMIE PILARCZYK

jpilarczyk@tampatrib.com

Published: December 3, 2008

HYDE PARK NORTH - The gift list for those shopping at the Alternative Christmas Market on Sunday might look something like this:

•$30 for bed linens for abused, neglected and abandoned children

•$50 for toys for two children of parents in prison

•$138 for a gas-powered chainsaw for disaster relief and recovery

•$250 for a water buffalo to help a family out of poverty

A three-year tradition at Hyde Park United Methodist Church, the Alternative Christmas Market is a way for people to find gifts that serve a deeper purpose.

Events will be held at the church on Dec. 7 and 14, and people may buy gifts on the church's Web site through Dec. 20. Handmade cards, crafts and gifts from One World Gift Shop's global artisans will be available as well.

"It is promoting our missions and giving that gift of hope to people in need," said chairwoman Lisa Rorrer.

Begun as a way to encourage the congregation to contribute to the church's outreach missions locally and internationally, annual contributions have grown from $12,000 in the first year to $17,800 last year. This year's effort will support 19 missions from the Hillsborough House of Hope to Heifer International.

While the economy is struggling, the Rev. Vicki Walker said it is all the more reason to give.

"We are creating an opportunity for people to help others," said Walker, who is helping spearhead the project. "We are all part of this community. When one of us hurts, we all hurt."

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Alternative Christmas Market
WHEN: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday and Dec. 14

WHERE: Hyde Park United Methodist Church, 500 W. Platt St., in the activities center

CONTACT: Rev. Vicki Walker at (813) 253-5388 or go to www.hydeparkumc.org.

Reporter Jamie Pilarczyk can be reached at (813) 259-7661.

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