SPOKANE, Wash. — The YWCA’s Hope for the Holidays campaign has helped 90 families check items off their wish lists this year, marking another successful year for the program that has served the Inland Northwest for the past 10 years, according to the organization.
The families receiving assistance participate in the YWCA’s domestic violence shelter, Opportunity Center, and free preschool program, the YWCA said.
“Maybe it’s homelessness, maybe it’s financial insecurity or just so many things happening right now,” said Jemma Riedel-Johnson, YWCA engagement lead. “And so to be able to take care of this for them, right, so that they know that their kids are going to have an amazing holiday, that they’re going to have something nice for themselves, too.”
Community members began dropping off gifts today before the items get distributed to participating families. The YWCA continues accepting gift cards for the program. Officials say gift cards provide the most empowering option because they allow families to select and purchase items themselves.
The Hope for the Holidays campaign addresses financial hardship during a season that emphasizes giving and togetherness. For families already navigating domestic violence, homelessness, or economic insecurity, the program removes one source of holiday stress, according to the YWCA.
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