A DECADE AGO, Loretta Krausz was a single mother whose children's Christmas was made brighter by a group of volunteers.

Today, from her eastern Baltimore County home, she coordinates "Loretta's Kids Program," which provides toys, food, clothing and other items to families in the area who might otherwise not have such a Merry Christmas. "Everyone in the family is helped," says Ms. Krausz, who has since remarried and is now able to aid others.

Her chief helpers are high school students she enlists by contacting student government and other groups. This year, students from Patapsco and Kenwood high schools are among the volunteers, along with a cadre of adults who make the deliveries.

Ms. Krausz said her program is geared up this week to serve 23 families with more than 70 children. Last year's total was 40 families with just more than 100 children.

Although the holiday is near, there are additional families Ms. Krausz would like help. If you can provide them with gifts or for more information, call 410-285-6836.

Bright Lights spotlights people who make a difference in the quality of life of this area. It appears periodically in this column.

Pub date 12/22/98