For over thirty years, members of the Snoqualmie Valley Kiwanis partner with local businesses to collect gifts for children who may not otherwise receive them on Christmas. Businesses from all over the Snoqualmie Valley proudly display their Kiwanis Giving Trees loaded with holiday tags representing children with whom the program is meant to serve.
Due to the economic ramifications brought on by COVID-19, there are more families than ever struggling financially. Many local non-profits, including the Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank and the Snoqualmie Valley Kiwanis, see a steady increase of families needing a little extra help as each week passes.
Even in the midst of economic challenges themselves, over 50 businesses in the Snoqualmie Valley generously supported the program encouraging customers and employees to grab a tag and purchase a gift. According to Kiwanis volunteers, the response from businesses and community members was stronger than ever. Over 300 children will experience the joy of opening gifts selected by their parents on Christmas morning.
In addition to gifts, families are provided the opportunity to select new coats, hats, gloves and socks provided by the Snoqualmie Valley Rotary Club.
December 17-18, Kiwanis invited pre-registered parents to the Snoqualmie Casino Ballroom to select presents for their kids. Gifts were available for children and youth of all ages. “We are honored to be able to provide a venue to host this important holiday tradition,” says Stanford Le Interim President and CEO of Snoqualmie Casino. “It’s wonderful to see the community pull together to serve the families in our community.”
Over 130 volunteers from the Kiwanis, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank worked with the Snoqualmie Casino team to execute the Giving Tree shopping event following strict COVID guidelines to ensure a safe experience.
