YWCA launches Stockings of Hope campaign to help women, families at Christmas

YWCA Lethbridge and District has launched its Stockings of Hope campaign.

Personal circumstances shouldn’t be what keeps women and families from experiencing a happy holiday season.

And YWCA Lethbridge and District has launched a Christmas campaign to provide for as many people as it can.

Stockings of Hope offers a few ways to put smiles on faces this season of giving:

• lay claim to and shop for someone’s personalized wishlist stocking;
• choose from a selection of gift cards and wrapping supplies to be included in each stocking; or
• donate an amount of your choosing, allowing committee members to make purchases.

The campaign aims to help women and families “who have accessed YWCA programs and services, including Harbour House, Hestia Homes, Hope, Harbour House Support Services and Safe Visitation.”

On the campaign website, YWCA recommends spending “around $100 per person.”

“However, we encourage all of our supporters to shop within their means,” YWCA says.

Starting Nov. 3, gift cards, wrapping supplies and donations will be accepted online, or at YWCA reception (604 Eighth St. S.).

And starting Nov. 24, gifts can be dropped off, unwrapped and identified with your name, at YWCA reception.

General donations “such as toys or games, pyjamas, winter boots or specialty bath products” can also be dropped off.

Pre-purchased gift cards are also welcome, as are cash or cheque donations.

YWCA says it “will distribute these within the program.”

“No matter which stocking the community chooses to fill, they’ll be providing much-needed help to someone in need in our community,” YWCA says.

“This program impacts approximately 100 women and families each year so that they may enjoy the holiday season no matter their personal circumstances.”

The deadline for gift drop-off is Dec. 15.

Stockings will be delivered Christmas Eve.

Stockings of Hope organizers are also looking for help in the way of volunteers.

Anyone willing and able to spend a four-hour stretch wrapping gifts on Dec. 18 or Dec. 19 is encouraged to email [e-mail].