Getting into the Christmas spirit in Cozad

COZAD, Neb. -- Jeremy and Bailey Koch have each decided to give the community of Cozad a splash of Christmas spirit, and they've each done it in their own unique way.

The married co-owners of Natural Escapes landscaping and garden center in Cozad have combined their efforts to bring the central Nebraska community a drive-through light show for the past two years, and an angel tree to help families in need for the past seven years.

Bailey Koch said a local outpost store had previously organized an angel tree, in which families unable to afford gifts and self-care items are matched with families providing them anonymously. When the store went out of business, Bailey said she wanted to fill the void.

"I was in the checkout line, and someone behind me came in and asked for help for their family," Bailey said. "I felt the Holy Spirit say, 'Why don't you do an angel tree. You can do one. You have a business.'"

This year, the greenhouse's angel tree is serving 226 families and 649 children. The bulk of those receiving the gifts are from Dawson County, with a few coming from nearby Frontier County. Bailey said she reaches out to gifting families via social media.

Bailey said the program never asks for financial proof of need.

"If a family asks for help, they get help," she said.

Bailey's husband felt compelled to add his dash of holiday spirit two years ago, finally making the move last year with his drive-through light display.

"With Covid, I felt like last year was a great opportunity," Jeremy said.

There is no charge to visit and view the display.

"The focus is on faith and family," Jeremy said. "I want this to be something the community will enjoy for years to come."