Valley Ranch Elementary fourth grade math classes have been challenged to provide real families who are in need with Christmas gifts while staying within a budget.

The children will work in teams and develop plans that support both the needs and wants of the families. The best plans will be chosen and implemented with generous donations from local business and community groups, including Gold's Gym, Irving Chamber of Commerce, Las Colinas Federal Credit Union, Mortgages USA and Volunteers of America.

Representatives of the sponsors were on hand Nov. 27 at Valley Ranch Elementary to kick off the project with a presentation from Tonia Clark of Las Colinas Federal Credit Union. Winners will be announced at a ceremony on Dec. 12, and the gifts will be delivered before Christmas.