For the last four years the Good Stuff Foundation’s “Adopt-a-Family for the Holidays” program has brought light and holiday spirit into the lives of hundreds of local families and youth.
This year the foundation extended its reach from Trail and Castlegar to families in Fruitvale and Salmo.
“The influx of families in need has been growing,” said organizer Annick de Goode. “Coming from 60 then 80 and 100 last year, it is really going up. Times are hard.”
With a significant increase in the cost of living, more families are in need of assistance over the holiday season. Organizers are asking those who can, to help those who can't afford to make this a joyful time for their children or spouses.
The foundation recruits sponsors that get matched with registered families, who indicate the number of children, age, gender and gift wishes.
The anonymous sponsors create hampers for the family that consists of gifts for the children and adults, and are delivered by anonymous volunteers to the families around Christmas time.
Last year, the Foundation provided close to 100 hampers to area families, and what impressed them most was how invested the volunteers and sponsors were.
“There is lots of generosity,” said Ash Hodgins. “The people that drop off their gifts here, they are so generous. They really care about what they are getting for the kids.
“The care that they have for what they are putting together for these families is definitely what hits home for me.
“Every time, I cry so much.”
Thanks to the generosity of the community, after four years, the foundation, now a non-profit society, has so many kids toys it is asking that donations be restricted.
Rather than loose toys, if someone wants to donate a single gift, the foundation is asking that they donate gift cards from grocery stores, gas stations, local restaurants and retail stores, or passes to the movie theatre, bowling alley or Trail Aquatic Centre.
Also, ensure it is for a teenager or adult.
“Five years ago this was me,” said de Goode. “And this is why I started this. Now I’m doing it and hopefully in the future I will be a sponsor.”
Adopt-a-Family for the Holidays also encourages cash donations, and will take applications until Dec. 23.
If you are interested in registering, sponsoring a family, volunteering, or sending an e-transfer donation, email kootenaygsf@gmail.com.
