For the past several years Sarah’s Inn  has transformed itself into a magical holiday gift shop where clients of Sarah’s Inn can “shop” for gifts for their children at no cost to themselves.  In past years the Holiday Gift Project has provided gifts to as many as 300 children and teens.  Additionally providing gifts for nearly 100 women in 2010.  The Holiday Gift Project is especially important during these very tough economic times when finances play an even more crucial role in the decisions that battered women make. The reality of the Holiday Gift Project allows the women we serve to be able to make decisions about their families safety and well being without worrying about whether or not they will be able to provide gifts for their children during the holiday season.  The “gift shop” affords women the opportunity to choose gifts for their children and to make their own decisions about how to provide for them.  The day itself also provides the women with an opportunity to relax and be pampered as volunteers provide child care, deliver coffee or hot cocoa and assist with the shopping, wrapping and carrying! 
 
The success of the Holiday Gift Project begins with our partners; businesses and community organizations that host a donation box—and you.  Either way, community members donate new, unwrapped gift items for our “gift shop”.  We do ask that donors avoid giving violent or sexist toys or games and attach a gift receipt whenever possible.  If you are not sure about what popular this year or you just don't have time to shop - don't worry - we will happy accept gift cards in amounts between $15 - $25. This year we are running low on our wrapping supplies such as wrapping paper, gift bags, ribbons and bows.  Having these items on hand allows the families to take the gifts home wrapped and ready to give or wrap them at home.  If you are interested in making a donation of a new gift, gift card, or wrapping supplies please Colleen Sutkus at csutkus@sarahsinn.org.  Thank you and Happy Holidays!