No matter your financial situation, holiday gift giving can be overwhelming. The National Retail Federation estimates that Americans will spend more than $465 billion in 2015 alone. For those who need a little extra help making the season bright for their family, the South Sound YMCA opens their doors to kids of all ages—and Santa!
“Christmas at the Y” takes place at the downtown Olympia branch at 510 Franklin Street SE from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m on December 4. Thanks to generous donations of gifts from local businesses, South Sound YMCA members, and caring donors, families in need can shop for free presents, have their picture taken with Santa, and enjoy games, face painting, and more.
Staffers and volunteers admit that “last year we were overwhelmed with the numbers!” While the official count was 693, actual attendance was much higher. The Y collects gifts for this festive event all year round. This year’s donation deadline is December 1 with a wrapping party for Santa gifts taking place on December 2. But no donation is ever turned away; in 2014 gifts received the day of the party were quickly prepped and distributed.
But children do more than simply receive gifts themselves. They are also welcomed into the Gift Shop where they are free to select a gift for their family and wrap it themselves. The Giving Room contains rows of donated materials to choose from as well. There, families can choose from an array of toiletries, t-shirts, dolls, books, toys and the perennial fan favorite: LEGOS.
Donations are sorted and organized by volunteer Barb Kuenstler. She laughs that “we get a real variety every year” but truly enjoys the array of items which meet any and all needs.
Most of the gifts come from community and member donations. Specific needs are often filled through a Giving Tree set up in the Y’s lobby. If you’re unable to provide a gift for the celebration, volunteers suggest donations of cash or time. With greater numbers expected than ever before, they always need additional helping hands.
Aside from presents, party goers receive a free 8×10 photograph with Santa, taken by the husband of long-time volunteer Carolee Johnson. She happily admits “this is our Christmas every year.” Santa photographs will be printed and presented to families the night of the event.
Johnson also crafts 400 hand-made, reversible tote bags for families to use when choosing gifts. Each one is sturdily crafted, gorgeously patterned, and comes with a small ‘Made with Love’ charm sewn onto the side. She loves to stitch these throughout the year and donations of fabric are always appreciated.
Anyone with questions about donating or volunteering can contact Kat Parks. She can be reached by calling 360-918-0257 or at parksk@ssymca.net.
“Christmas at the Y” is free, open to everyone, and a true delight. Downtown Olympia branch Executive Director Jake Grater is proud that the event “brings the community and people together” every year.
If you can’t attend, consider donating to the South Sound YMCA and all they do for our region. In 2014 alone, the South Sound YMCA served nearly 50,000 people thanks to dedicated staff and the willingness of 1,250 volunteers. Could you be number 1251?
