Family Centers Children’s Store Seeks Donations

Each year numerous businesses and individuals from Door County generously donate items so that over 350 youngsters can visit the Children’s Christmas Stores held at four locations in November and December. The stores are hosted by the Family Centers of Door County with the help of over 40 volunteers. With the assistance of Santa’s Elves, children age 4 – 12 are given the chance to shop and wrap gifts for family members while mom and dad wait outside. These items are new inventory priced from 50 cents to no more than $15 and are valued at far more than the asking price. This activity teaches children valuable lessons about giving, making choices, and budgeting. No child is turned away for inability to pay.

Managed by Connie and Rachel Hale and Diane Jome, many hours are spent in preparation for the four stores. While monetary donations are accepted, the group asks community members to contribute new items to increase their inventory. Particularly needed are items for men and teens. Hunting socks, fishing lures, golf balls, tape measures, tools, and work gloves for guys are needed. Also, board games, iTunes cards, card games, headphones, and bath and body products for teens.

“My kids could hardly wait to give us our presents last Christmas,” said one parent whose children participated last year. “They were so proud of their choices and it was a real cost savings for us as well.”

Please call the Family Centers at 920.825.1430 to arrange pick up or drop off of donations or to volunteer.

Dates and locations of the stores for those interested in attending are as follows:

• Saturday, November 21, 10 am – 1pm

Bay View Lutheran Church, 340 West Maple St., Sturgeon Bay

• Saturday, November 28 12 – 2 pm

Bertschinger Center, 7860 Hwy 42, Egg Harbor

• Sunday, December 6 1 – 3 pm

Recreation Center, Main Road, Washington Island

• Saturday, December 12 8 – 11 am

Southern Door High School, 2073 County DK, Brussels