KIND-hearted Washington folk have been flocking to Building Block Day Centre to support its Giving Tree and help brighten Christmas for people who otherwise may not receive a gift.
The centre, located at Concord Bus station, launched the initiative just last week and already, two thirds of the tags have been snapped up.
But there’s still time for families to drop in with their children to select a tag or two – and even once they’re all gone, there is still plenty that people can do to help the cause.
The tree is located inside the main building and has been decorated with tags, each one representing a local person who could really benefit from a Christmas gift.
These include children, adults and the elderly, homeless people and those with other vulnerabilities who otherwise may receive no gifts on Christmas Day.
All you need to do is drop in, pick a tag or two, buy a gift and the return it, unwrapped in a gift bag, ideally before December 1.
The Building Block team will then wrap them and ensure they go to the people who need them.
“We launched it on Thursday, November 5 and we’ve had a steady stream of people coming in ever since,” explained Aimee from Building Block.
“We’ve been blown away at the response but we aren’t really surprised because, as we all know, Washington people are the kindest people you can meet.
“Anyone who wants to help can come in and choose a tag, buy the relevant gift and put it in a gift bag, with the tag attached so we know who it is for. We’re asking people not to wrap the gifts, we will do that.
“We’re open Monday to Friday from 9am-4.30pm for people who want to come in with their children to choose. Our normal activities hours will stay the same but we wanted to make sure people could bring their kids after school, so the doors will stay open until 4.30pm to give them time.
“Ideally, we’d like to have all the gifts brought in by December 1, but we won’t turn anyone away if they can’t make it back until later.”
By close of play on Monday, November 9, two thirds of the tags had been taken and it looks like they’ll all be gone within a few days – however people will still be able to donate even when they’re gone.
“We will be in need of wrapping paper and sticky tape for when we start the wrapping, so if anyone is able to help by donating these, we’d be very grateful,” Aimee added.
The centre is also always in need of donations of biscuits, gift sets, smellies, selection boxes and tea and coffee, for anyone who wants to help but misses out on a gift tag.
For further updates, visit the Building Block Day Centre Facebook page.
