Children's Christmas Store - where children come first
The Children's Christmas Store was first held on Saturday, December 11, 2008. It is sponsored by the Chapter so that children can purchase gifts for family, friends and even their pet. It is held the 1st Saturday in December in conjunction with Christmas in the Village. It is open to area children up to age 18. Last year the chapter raised prices from $1.00 per item to $2.00 per item. The store is not a fundraiser. Since 2009 all proceeds have been put back into purchasing items for the next year's store.
Over 400 items were for sale our first year with prices ranging from $0.25 to $2.00. Approximately 65 children visited the store to purchase Christmas presents for family members and friends. Santa and Mrs. Claus visited with most of the children. $257.70 was raised with Royal Neighbors matching the funds. Proceeds went to the library for children's materials.
In 2012, the store raised $880.00, saw over 100 children shop, and offered over 800 items for sale at $1.00 each. Items included doll clothes, handmade doll blankets, tools, ties, mugs, pet items, toys, coloring books, candles, decorations, hats, scarves, mittens, automotive items, and so much more. Each year the store grows bigger and more children take advantage of the opportunity to shop for family and friends. Check out the photos here.
Anyone wishing to donate items for children to purchase may drop them off at the library during normal business hours. Monetary donations to purchase gifts are also appreciated. Want to volunteer to help children shop? Call the library at (309) 596-2620 to sign up.