Tukwila Parks & Recreation is gearing up for our annual Giving Program, the Spirit of Giving, for Tukwila families. Recipients in this program are typically children and families who are homeless, low-income or in troubled situations. The Spirit of Giving Program is coordinated by event staff but works in partnership with several businesses and local residents. Program recipients are recommended to us by Tukwila School District and Tukwila’s Human Services Department. Families receive a personal invitation to our one day giving event. At the event, families ‘shop’ our store (supplied with donated gift items) where they select toys, educational games, clothing for their children, grocery gift cards and basic household goods. While parents are shopping, kids are entertained with movies, activities and treats. When parents have finished shopping, volunteers help wrap the gifts to prepare for delivery!
Last year this program alone helped serve over 300 children. Our goal this year is to once again serve all the district’s displaced families, which is approximately 300+ children. I know collectively, we can bring holiday cheer to many Tukwila families this holiday season. Will you help us reach our goal? Below are ways to participate, though this does not limit other creative ideas you might have!
Unwrapped Holiday Gifts:
Donate new, unwrapped gifts for children or teens, to our giving store. Families are in need of blankets, gloves, mittens, and warm hats in various sizes. We will provide you with a list of our most requested items to help you with your shopping efforts!
Host a Toy, Food or Blanket Drive: We will provide you with a holiday bin and promotional materials. We will also make regular pick-ups of the goods you collect. If your organization has a tree up during the holidays we could provide ornaments (gift tags) for visitors or employees to choose from and purchase.
Donate Cash or Cards: Too busy to shop? We’ll do it for you! Make a donation or purchase store gift cards and leave the shopping to us. We even have some brave Black Friday shoppers to help make your dollars stretch. Donations can be dropped off or mailed to the Tukwila Community Center, 12424 42nd Ave South, Tukwila WA 98168 or by using the donate now button below.
(Please add Spirit of Giving in subject line)
Volunteer : We have many opportunities for volunteers (individuals and groups) to get involved in this program. Volunteers can help with pre-event activities, day of, and clean up.
No matter how you and your business/organization choose to participate please be assured that your efforts will make a difference in the life of a local child.
If you would like to discuss this program further, please contact Shannon Fisher at 206-768-2822 or via email at shannon.fisher@tukwilawa.gov Together we can make a difference!
