The holiday season rings in with reminders of buying presents for loved ones and friends, but it also brings a reminder to give to those in need.  The PTO has organized the Celebration of Giving for ten years now, giving back to those in the district who would not usually receive holiday presents without cash and gift donations from other families.

FHS Tiger S.T.R.I.P.E.S. member Nikki Barrett organizes the annual donation drive.  During this event, Barrett states that families can choose to sponsor a child for the entire holiday season.  More information on how to contact Barrett on being a sponsor for a child can be found here.

“When one signs up to sponsor a child, he or she will receive the gender and age of the child and a wish list of items to, if possible, be purchased at the Kohl’s on 96th Street,” Barrett said.  “The wish list provides suggestions of sizes and styles to help make shopping easier for the sponsor.”

Once items are purchased, the gifts are left unwrapped in the front office.  Barrett takes it from there, giving the presents to the caregivers of the families before winter break comes.  If someone would like to help but does not have time to shop, other donations are accepted as well.

“Any and all donations are appreciated and there are many ways to participate,” Barrett said. “Donating money to help cover the kids who don’t have sponsors, donating $50 Kroger gift cards to help with holiday meals, gift bags and tissue paper for wrapping, and small items to help fill the treat bags that each child receives.”

Each year, the Celebration of Giving fills Barrett with a great deal of joy.

“This program is very meaningful to me and to many FHS families,” Barrett said.  “It allows us to help FHS students who likely wouldn’t receive gifts this holiday season.”

Donations for this year’s Celebration of Giving are all due by Dec. 11 to the front office.  From that point, the PTO will deliver the donations to families of the district.