The Van Wert County Courthouse

Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025

Groups provide merry Christmas to kids

Here, Addyson Long receives a stuffed animal from members of the Wetzel Motorcycle Club. (photos submitted)

Members of Wetzel Motorcycle Club and Region 3 of ABATE (American Bikers Aimed Towards Education) were able to raise enough money this year to make the Christmas of more than 100 county children a merry one.

This year, the two groups raised more than $7,000 for their yearly toy buy and purchased gifts for 139 children living in Van Wert County.

In addition, Wetzel Motorcycle Club members handed out more than 200 stuffed animals to children as they left Walmart on Saturday during the club’s shopping event.

Wetzel Motorcycle Club will also complete its donations for the year during an event to be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, December 14, at American Legion Post 178 in Van Wert.

The club’s donations for the year will exceed $25,000.

A member of the Wetzel Motorcycle Club shops to provide Christmas toys for needy Van Wert County children.

POSTED: 12/05/11 at 5:34 am. FILED UNDER: News