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published November 20, 2009

Spread Christmas Joy By Sorting Toys!

Breakthrough volunteers are gearing up for the Annual Christmas Store. This year’s event will be Saturday, December 19th at the Breakthrough Ministry Center. The Store provides a festive environment where shelter guests and neighborhood residents can purchase gifts for loved ones at a reduced cost.

Volunteers play an important role in the success of this day by planning activities and entertainment, sorting and stocking gifts, and helping to create a joyful, welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy a day of shopping and celebrating Christmas.

“We want to create an atmosphere of celebration and fellowship,” says Lisa, a member of last year’s planning committee. Lisa has lived in the community for 28 years. Her daughter has been involved in many of Breakthrough’s programs, including Bible study, the Nettie Bailey Student Achievement Program, choir, and several sports.

“From the décor to details on how gifts were arranged, we try to make this a great experience for the community,” says Lisa. “Last year, we had an emcee to move things along throughout the day. We provided great snacks and a choir. We also planned lots of music so shoppers could sing spiritual hymns and Christmas songs.”

According to Lisa, many neighborhood residents and Breakthrough guests eagerly await the day’s activities. “When people make a donation to the Christmas Store, it allows us to offer an opportunity to people who would not ordinarily be able to afford gifts for their families,” she says.

Partner with Breakthrough to make the Christmas Store a great event!

DONATE GIFTS See details and download a list of items needed

VOLUNTEER to sort and price gifts on Friday, December 18. Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, at 773-346-1771 or volunteer@breakthrough.org.