After a few years on hiatus, The Children’s Christmas Store is set to make its grand return this holiday season, opening its doors from Saturday, November 30, to December 21.
The event will be hosted at the Gentle Shepherd Church, located at 3 Ottawa Avenue in Elliot Lake, and promises to bring joy and excitement to local children as they embark on a unique shopping experience.
The Children’s Christmas Store is designed exclusively for kids, allowing them to shop for special gifts for their family members in a safe and supportive environment.
Parents will wait outside while their children, accompanied by enthusiastic volunteers, select gifts that warm the hearts of loved ones.
With all items priced at $20 or less, children can choose from a variety of affordable and thoughtful presents, ensuring that the spirit of giving remains accessible for all families in the community.
One of the standout features of the store is the “wrapping station,” where kids can wrap their gifts, adding an element of secrecy and excitement to their choices. This hands-on approach not only enhances the joy of gift-giving but also encourages children to take pride in their selections.
Shopping sessions typically last between 15 to 30 minutes, allowing each child ample time to find the perfect gifts. Any leftover funds will be returned to the child in an envelope, ensuring that no one goes home empty-handed.
For parents, the process is simple: they are required to fill out a form with their child’s name and details of the recipients for whom they are buying gifts. This helps volunteers assist children more effectively, making the experience seamless and enjoyable for everyone involved.
The Children’s Christmas Store will operate on Thursdays and Fridays from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. With these convenient hours, families can easily fit shopping into their busy holiday schedules.
Organizers are also seeking volunteers to help make the event a success. If you are a student interested in lending a hand, please contact Darla Hennessy at [email protected] or call 705-849-6373.
Volunteering at the store not only provides a valuable service to the community, but is also a wonderful opportunity to engage with local children and share in the holiday spirit.
As the holiday season approaches, The Children’s Christmas Store stands ready to create cherished memories for kids and families in Elliot Lake, reminding everyone of the true meaning of giving.
Don’t miss out on this magical opportunity to witness the joy on children’s faces as they shop for their loved ones!