There's nothing like seeing the joy on the faces of those we love when they open a gift during the holiday season.
Sometimes, getting to the store to buy those gifts is difficult for kids. But teens at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County's Nappanee Clubhouse came to the rescue with "Santa's Workshop".
It's a store that they operated in the Club cafeteria. Members were able to shop for gifts for their families and the prices were just right for kids looking to spend their allowance. Items ranged in price from 50 cents to $7 and included everything from stuffed animals and toys to jewelry and items for the home.
"This is so kids can get gifts for their parents without having to be driven where their parents can see what they're buying," said Paige Truman, an eighth grade member who helped run the store.
Molly Stevens (left) and Paige Truman wrap gifts that Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County members purchased in the "Santa's Workshop" store they operate at the Clubhouse.
All of the items for sale were donated by community members, families and friends of people who attend Club.
"It definitely makes an impact on our kids. It truly is a surprise when they can give a gift that's unexpected at a low cost. This is money they can take from their piggy banks and for them to be able to do this is so great for them," said Stephanie Hamsher, Nappanee Club program manager.
As kids filed through the store, their minds were racing as they determined the perfect gift to fill their shopping lists.
"I'm looking for things for my mom, dad and sister," said third grader Adalyn Beran.
"I'm buying a gift for my mom," said eighth grader Nelvelis Irizarry, who said the store is allowing her to create a surprise. "That's the big difference. I couldn't get something if my mom had to drive me. It wouldn't be a surprise," she said.
Once the gifts were purchased, the teen staff members wrapped the gifts for the kids to take home.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County began operations in 1956, and today the Clubs provide programming and services for the most at-risk boys and girls within the community. Each day, the Clubs provide powerful relationships with the youth they serve and open avenues of opportunity for young people across their community by offering safe places where young people can learn, grow and succeed.
