’Tis the season of giving and, for the most part, the residents of the Shuswap are known for stepping up and giving generously during the holidays.
The Salvation Army Food Bank and Second Harvest see a surge in donations of non-perishable food, as food drives and programs such as the CP Rail Holiday Train serve to put cans and boxes on the shelves.
The idea of providing a wonderful Christmas for those less fortunate is a priority for many citizens, who do not want to see families, and especially children, go without.
The idea of bringing a smile to a young child’s face is very appealing. But there is a another group that appears to be somewhat forgotten – the teens and tweens of the area. They may have lost the cuteness of childhood, but they haven’t lost the desire to be shown caring and kindness in the form of a Christmas present.
The Salvation Army is reporting they are especially low on gifts for the ages 10-13, and they are especially short of presents for girls. Last year, the organization provided gifts for more than 200 children in Salmon Arm and not all of them are little kids.
So when you are thinking about buying a gift to help make Christmas bright, maybe think about the older child too.