The holiday spirit is shining brightly at Interfaith Community Services center in Escondido, where donors dropped off gifts for families in need.
Interfaith matches donors with clients who are working to get back on their feet. Wish lists let donors know the number, ages, and interests of “adopted” family members.
“They'll see if there's any children, their ages, and whether they like books or Barbies or are into biking,” said Lauren Holt, Interfaith Community Services communications coordinated.
In December donated gifts are collected, and then delivered by Interfaith case workers to families.
This year an open house was held to gather gifts and invite donors to see Interfaith operations. In some instances case workers and clients were able to meet donors and share their thanks. Most donations are given anonymously.
Marilyn Galloway, is one of over 110 donors. She and her extended family pitch in to fulfill a family's wish list. She said she donates to share holiday joy.
“I love waking up on Christmas morning and thinking about the childrens’ lives that have been touched by this program, and the delight that they must be feeling on Christmas morning, and the joy the parents must have in being able to have these gifts to give to their children,” Galloway said.
Also dropping off gifts was the Chou family. They gave as family, with helpo from their daughter's Girl Scouts troop.
Holt said the open house also brought extra walk-in donations, which were added to families' gift bags. She said gifts help brighten what can be a dark time for families with limited means.
The heart-warming tradition has been held for over 20 years. This year 570 individuals will see donated gifts under the tree.
