The time is coming close for the 42^nd Annual Operation REACH in Roane County and officials are scrambling to finishing raising money to achieve their goal. The event takes about 500 children in need Christmas shopping. REACH officials say each child is allocated $225 each to buy gifts for them and their families. Given the number of children and the amount each gets to spend, that leaves a current deficit of just over $50,000. Donations can be dropped off at the Roane County Sheriff’s Department in Kingston or mailed to P.O. Box 981, Kingston Tennessee 37763. Anyone that wishes to donate or help escort the children while they shop can call Randy Ellis at (865) 898-2600. This year’s Operation REACH in Roane County will be held Friday and Saturday, December 8 and 9, 2017.