Donations from local businesses and individuals are needed for an annual Hatteras Island event that gives local children the opportunity to go “shopping” for Christmas presents for their family members.
Celebrating its fifth year in 2023, the Free Holiday Christmas Shop features a room full of goodies that kids can peruse and pick up in order to place presents for loved ones under the Christmas tree.
“It’s completely free for kids, and it teaches them about the gift of giving, which is really important – it’s not just about the kids receiving gifts at Christmas,” said longtime organizer Sarah Fitch. “And the [event] has really grown in popularity. During the first year, there might have been 60 kids who were signed up. Last year, it was around 100.”
“We need new or very gently-used items, and we’re looking for gifts for moms, dads, teenagers, kids – the entire family,” she said. “Anybody can donate, and monetary donations are fine.”
Information on the details for the upcoming event, (which is traditionally held in December and has a pre-registration requirement to accommodate as many children as possible), will be coming soon. In the meantime, individuals and businesses that want to participate can do so by contacting Sarah Fitch at 252-305-0656.
“Every year we get an overwhelming response [from kids] who want to participate,” said Fitch. “[Please] consider making a donation to this incredibly meaningful occasion, allowing the kids on Hatteras Island to experience the joy of giving.”
