The community is coming together to give children a gift that keeps on giving.
The joy of giving is afforded to kids who wouldn't otherwise be able to purchase presents for their loved ones.
The 19th annual Children's Christmas Gift House sees the community donate new and gently used items that the kids can shop for and give to their parents or significant adults in their lives (grandparents, aunts, uncles, foster parents).
Tables filled with gifts, festive wrapping paper, hot chocolate, cookies and crafts are all part of the fun put on by the North Okanagan Optimist Club and People Place.
Event co-chair Phyllis Dyck said the goal of the Optimist Club, locally, nationally and internationally, is to support kids and families.
鈥淲e believe this event lives up to our motto to 鈥榖ring out the best in kids鈥� and our volunteers,鈥� she said, taking a break from sorting the donations of gifts that are starting to come in. 鈥淢any families need a lift up, a reason to be kind and thankful, and giving kids the opportunity to support the adults in their lives at Christmas is perfect.鈥�
Taking place Dec. 7 at the People Place, the Gift House is the event where kids who are low on cash but big on heart are assisted by volunteer 鈥渆lves鈥� from high school leadership programs, and while they are picking out just the right gifts for their loved ones, the adults can enjoy a hot beverage and a Christmas treat.
As well, a craft section will be set up for siblings who aren鈥檛 going to shop or for kids to enjoy once they have made their purchases.
鈥淭he event is open to all kids who would like to support the adults in their lives,鈥� said Dyck. 鈥淭he kids will have the opportunity to choose gifts, our volunteers will wrap them and send everyone home with a smile.鈥�
Thanks to generous donations from the community, there is always a huge selection of gifts for both men and women, from jewelry, candles and handbags, to tools, wallets and toques.
鈥淭he community donates wonderful gifts and the Optimist Club members bake cookies and provide hot chocolate and coffee for all.鈥�
Donations are needed to make this event a success, so check your cupboards, drawers and closets for new or like-new items.
Unwrapped donations can be dropped off by Dec. 2 at the People Place, 3402-27th Ave.; Vernon Curling Club, 3400-39th Ave.; The Morning Star, 4402-25th Ave.; Ladies World, 4406-27th St.; or Royal LePage-Downtown Realty, 4006-32nd St.
The Gift House takes place Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call 250-306-4494, 250-558-6585 or email manager@peopleplacevernon.ca
