Bethlehem Baptist Church, located on Usher Street, gave away 100 handmade drums and other handmade gifts to needy children on Dec. 18. Many of the gifts, including the drums, pillows, blankets and other crafts were made by philanthropist Jean Jackson.

Craig McLeod, assistant chairman of Bethlehem Baptist, said the church hopes the "Christmas for Everyone" event will become an annual tradition.

Jackson said God spoke to her and told her she needed to use her craft skills to help local children. Originally, she said God told her to provide for 40 children, but she decided to strive for 60, and in the end gifts were provided for 120 children. In addition to the homemade gifts, volunteers bought toys and clothes for children as well.

"Children want things, but too often we ignore and think only of ourselves. So many children need love and someone to think about them," she said.

Lunch was also provided. Several local business donated to the cause including Chick-fil-A, Dollar General, Stalvey’s Restaurant, Stevie B’s, and local barber Grady Sanders, all of Covington, and Golden Corral, Hooters, Jim & Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Piccadilly Cafeteria, all of Conyers.