The Enid News and Eagle, Enid, OK

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December 6, 2008

YWCA appeals for help in Children's Christmas Sale

YWCA is appealing for help with its annual Children’s Christmas Sale.

“Usually by this time we are feeling confident we’ll have enough items for the kids to buy and enough supplies to get through the event, but I can’t believe how incredibly low we are on everything this year. We need a miracle,” said Dena Patterson, children’s services director and coordinator of the annual sale.

The sale is scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon Saturday for children ages 4 to 12. It is open to the public and has been a tradition in Enid for more than 30 years. The sale is designed as a way for kids to shop for family Christmas gifts at “piggy-bank prices.” All items in the store are under $3 and are provided by community donations.

After the kids shop, with assistance from volunteers, gifts are wrapped and kids are treated to snacks and, new this year, a visit from Santa Claus.

“It’s such an empowering event for children who usually have to rely on parents to get gifts for everyone they love,” Patterson said.

Items still needed for the sale include wrapping paper, gift bags, tape, bows, ribbon and breakfast snack items such as orange juice, milk and doughnuts.

The items in most need, Patterson said, include boxes for wrapping gifts, such as shoe boxes, and items for the store. Ideas for store items include bath and beauty products, jewelry, clothing accessories for men and women, home accents and men’s items such as tools, money clips, flashlights and cologne. Items must be gently used or new and can be delivered to YWCA, 525 S. Quincy. Pick-up also is available.

Set-up for the store begins Monday with a special request for volunteers on Friday evening who can lift heavy tables during final preparations, Patterson said.

“Last year’s sale served 225 children and each year seems to grow and grow. The staff is working very hard to meet the need, but community support is the only thing that will make this sale a success,” Patterson said.

All proceeds from the sale benefit the YWCA youth program.

For information about donating items or volunteering, contact Patterson at 234-7581 or by e-mail at dpatterson@ywcaenid.com.

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