Halloween in Highlands is a special event every year, and 2022 was certainly no exception.
As thousands of revelers made their way up and down Main Street gathering in candy, the festive feel of fall was everywhere.
Celebrations in neighboring Cashiers and Franklin were also very well attended as the area continues to grow its reputation as a Halloween destination. Kudos to the Highlands Chamber of Commerce, Town of Highlands and all the downtown merchants who made the fright night a good time for so many residents and visitors.
With Halloween now behind us, we officially enter the “Season of Giving” and perhaps no small town is more gracious with its funds, time, and effort than Highlands.
While there are dozens of nonprofit organizations and community groups that will gladly accept a monetary donation this holiday season, there are others who are looking for specific items. The Mountaintop Rotary Club kicked off its winter coat drive on Monday by placing donation boxes at multiple local churches. As the weather turns colder, the need for warm winter coats grows. Anyone who would like to donate is encouraged to clean out their closets and drop off any gently used cold-weather coats and jackets at a designated drop box. The coats will be collected at the end of the drive and then distributed to those in need.
If there isn’t an extra winter coat in your closet, perhaps you have some pet-related items to donate. Cashiers Highlands Humane Society is always on the lookout for blankets, towels, dog and cat food, cleaning supplies, and other essentials. Donations can be dropped off at the CHHS campus, located at 200 Gable Drive in Sapphire.
Two local Baptist churches are collecting shoe box gifts for Operation Christmas Child. First Baptist Church in Highlands and Cashiers Baptist Church will serve as dropoff locations from Nov. 14-21. Shoeboxes can be filled with small toys, stuffed animals, school supplies and other small gifts. The boxes are then sent to underprivileged children around the world by Samaritan’s Purse.
No matter how you decide to give this holiday season, take time and be thankful.