It’s that time of year again! That time where the holiday lights are hung, carols are sung, cookies are baked, trees are decorated, and the shopping frenzy is in full swing! Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or something else, I think it’s safe to say that this season brings out immense joy and gratitude for all. So, if you’re in Tacoma and have been searching for ways to give back this holiday season, the YWCA Pierce County is your one-stop-shop!
The YWCA’s Holiday Giving program supports adults and children fleeing domestic violence, giving them access to much needed resources. Your donation will give a family the holiday season they deserve.
The Holiday Gift Center
Each year, the YWCA creates a winter wonderland shopping area in their basement using donations given by the community. A week before Christmas, both the adults and children living in the shelter have an opportunity to “shop” for presents to give to their loved ones.
The first day of the Holiday Gift Center is dedicated to the children. On this day, they are able to select items to give to their parent and siblings. The second day is when the parents are able to shop for their children. Then, on the third day, the shopping area is opened up to former shelter residents and clients using YWCA services.
Your donation of new, unwrapped gift items and wrapping supplies can be dropped off directly to the YWCA, Mondays-Thursdays from 8:30am-5:00pm and on Fridays from 8:30am-4:00pm. The 2019 deadline is Friday, December 13th.
Want to make a monetary donation? That works too! Donating funds to the Holiday Gift Center allows the YWCA to supplement gifts to ensure that every family gets age-appropriate gifts they want! Donate by visiting their donation page and checking the box that says “I would like to donate to the Holiday Gift Center”.
Adopt A Family
If you would prefer to connect with a specific family, this is the option for you! Each
year, over 60 families are adopted by community members and organizations! Theses families have left the YWCA shelter within the last year. They then fill out applications that include a wish list for each member of their family. Then, the rest is up to you!
If you are interested in adopting a family this season, please email Jodie Fortune (she/her) at jfortune@ywcapiercecounty.org or call 253-272-4181 ext 249.
Holiday Volunteering
The last way to give back this holiday season through the YWCA is to volunteer! Can
you think of anything better than being able to watch the faces of these families light up
as they pick out gifts for their loved ones, knowing they are giving the gift of joy!
Each year, the YWCA serves over 350 adults and children through their Holiday Giving programs, and they couldn’t do it without the amazing support of volunteers!
Throughout December, the YWCA needs volunteers like you to support survivors of domestic violence during the holiday season. If you are interested in holiday volunteer opportunities, please email Jesse Bohlin (they/them) at jbohlin@ywcapiercecounty.org