(COLORADO SPRINGS) — On Wednesday, Dec. 18, families in need picked up their holiday gifts from Pikes Peak United Way and Harrison School District 2.
Cart after cart full of goodies was shuttled out to cars for kids in the district.
“The thank-you notes that the families are writing to their donors are incredibly heartfelt. Often they talk about the hardships that they faced throughout this year, and just how much it means to them as parents, but also how much joy will bring their children,” said Elizabeth Quevedo, the Senior Vice President of Community Impact at Pikes Peak United Way. “It’s hard to get through reading some of these without tearing up.”
One woman, Robin Purvine, is taking care of her two grandchildren ages 3 and 6. She said these gifts allow her to focus on their needs without sacrificing anything.
“(The gifts) mean a lot. To be able to watch their faces light up Christmas morning… That little glimmer in their eye, and see them all, ‘What did Santa bring?!?'” said Purvine as she laughed.
Her other grandson, AJ Juhala, was with her to pick up the gifts. He helped spread Christmas cheer in his homemade Buddy the Elf costume.
When asked if he’s looking forward to seeing his cousins open their gifts, he said, “Oh my gumdrops!!! I’m so excited!!!”
Truly embodying the spirit of Christmas (and Buddy the Elf), Juhala said the season is all about togetherness, kindness, and giving.
“Thank you guys for everything you do,” said Juhala to the donors. “Means the world to me, means the world to them. I mean, it’s not possible without us all coming together and spreading the holiday magic and cheer.”
Some of the families they served have as many as 10 people. Thanks to the community’s generosity, 230 families had their wish lists fulfilled this year. The families served by their drive were identified by staff within the district.
Pikes Peak United Way says the gifts picked up on Wednesday may be the only gifts that some of those families receive. They encourage people to get involved next year if possible.
