Efforts are underway to give children and teens in need an opportunity to enjoy the feeling of giving this Christmas.
The Children’s Christmas Workshop Dec. 10 will allow Vernon youth to pick out gifts for their parents, grandparents and important adults in their lives.
This will be the 11th year for the Children’s Christmas Workshop.
“Children, toddlers to teens, who don’t have a lot of money to spend can still enjoy the feeling of giving” said Sandra Bradley, of Redhead Real Estate at Re/Max Vernon.
“Christmas is a time to give, and we want to be sure everyone has the opportunity to give.”
Sponsors ReMax Vernon, We Care Home Health Services, the North Okanagan Optimist Club, Preceptor Alpha Epsilon Beta Sigma Phi, Browns Social House, Home Building Centre and other volunteers ensure the Children’s Gift House store will be set up with items donated from the community.
High school students escort the kids through the store to purchase gifts while mom and dad wait in the kitchen enjoying a cup of coffee and cookies. The gifts are wrapped and tagged before leaving the store.
“The smile of delight on the children’s faces is a joy to see,” said Holly Malfair, with We Care Home Health Services.
“They are so proud to be able to buy a special gift that they can put under the tree for mom and dad and we are excited to be a part of the event.”
Gifts range in price from five cents to a basket of gifts for $1. This year money raised will go to the children of the People Place.
“The event is a success because of the generous donations from the community and the volunteers that help put it together,” said Bradley.
“A few of the volunteers get all their co-workers to bring in a gift for the event. If your office would like to do the same sponsors will be happy to pick up the items. It’s a great way to get into the spirit of Christmas.”
The workshop is looking for donations of men’s and women’s gifts.
“This is a great chance to re-gift. Think of an item that you would have liked to give your mom or dad when you were a child,” said Bradley.
“Items that have gone quickly in the past are things like tools, ornaments, wallets, small sports items, games, jewelry, candles and spa items, designer scarves, gloves, kitchen gadgets, giftware, cards and games.”
Wrapping paper, tissue and ribbons are also needed. Items left over will be given to other organizations.
You can drop off donations at:
▪ Re/Max Vernon
▪ Ladies World Health and Fitness
▪ VantageOne Credit Union
▪ Illusions Hair and Body
▪ People Place
▪ Jazzercise
▪ We Care Home Health Services
This year’s event will be Dec. 10 at the People Place from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteers are needed for set up and gift wrap. If you would like to volunteer, contact Sandra Bradley at 250-549-4161 or sandra@redheadrealestate.com