GIRARD - The charity event "Girard Fun Day" allowed local children to enjoy games and food while receiving free book bags and school supplies.
This year's event was held August 28 in Tod Park.
The special day was established in 2006 in the memory of Lena Cross and her children, Mason and Christian. Lena Cross, 22, was murdered after being stabbed and someone setting fire to her home that killed her and her children, Mason, 5, and Christian, 2, on Sept. 13, 2005.
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Elizabeth Morgan, 7, of Girard, Jasmine Stimak, 5, of Girard, Porgi the Clown and other guests attend the Girard Fun Day at Tod Park. The event included clowns, book bag distribution, face painting and food.
After that mournful day, Cindy Michael, the mother of Lena's fiancee, and Karen Booth, Lena's grandmother, decided to organize the charity celebration for local children.
Michael said she established the Lena, Mason and Christian Memorial Fund a month after the tragedy. "I wanted to bring a piece of happiness to every child," Michael said.
This year the event included a craft table where children were given gifts such as books and toys.
Members of this foundation and citizens collected toys and books for this event. All things were prepared in advanced.
Michael said good weather, lots of children playing games, having their faces painted and enjoying the celebration made the event more enjoyable.
After playing, visitors were served hot dogs and cold drinks.
"It's not the only charity share which we organize. We established the spaghetti dinner and this year we're going to open the Christmas charity celebration dinner with gifts," Michael said
A vigil was held marking the fifth anniversary of their deaths.
For information, visit www.lenamasonchristian.org