FORT SMITH (KFSM) - Local business owners came together to host what they've dubbed the Christmas in the City Shopping Extravaganza on Friday (Dec.2) and Saturday (Dec.3).
Almost 30 vendors set up inside the Ben Geren Event Center along Zero Street and they will be offering a variety of holiday gifts. Organizers said they are hoping to raise money for the Community Rescue Mission in downtown Fort Smith. The non-profit organization started in 1981.
The goal behind this non-profit is to provide shelter and food to the homeless. Since it's a non-profit organization, they're on a tight budget, relying on private donations from within the community. This is where the proceeds from the Christmas in the City Shopping Extravaganza will help.
"Anytime a citizen or event partners with us that benefits us financially, the money goes into the feeding program and goes into helping paying for our utilities," said Brian Hilts, Executive Director of the Community Rescue Mission.
Doors open on Friday from 12-8 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.