Annual Report

December 2010 marked the 30th Christmas House and families in need from over twenty different cities in Snohomish County selected free holiday gifts for their children at the “Christmas House” department store.

In 2010, the store opened on December 3rd for a three-week period. When the store finally closed on December 20th, 10,093 children from 3,485 families had received clothing and gifts.

Once again, Christmas House was at the Everett Boys and Girls Club. The Boys and Girls Club is truly a perfect facility to host the Christmas House. Each morning at 7:00 am, numbers were distributed to the first 190 people to arrive. Some families waited in line all night to ensure they received a number. Anyone who was unable to wait in line for a number, due to documented medical reasons, was given an appointment.

When their number was called, parents presented pay stubs, birth certificates, medical coupons along with other proof of income and family size at our registration desk. Once registered, they were escorted through Christmas House by our volunteer hosts and hostesses.

Parents were invited to select a large gift, small gift, new clothing item, a stuffed animal, mini gift and a stocking hat or warm winter gloves for each child. On average, each child received about $60.00 worth of gifts. Parents were also invited to select an item off our Family table.

Thanks to the generous donations, we were able to purchase and give away over 180 bicycles and tricycles.

Once again, the citizens of Snohomish County and beyond met the challenge of helping their neighbors celebrate the holidays. Thanks to many individuals, local businesses and foundations, cash donations exceeded $159,000.00.

Throughout the year, we applied for and received foundation donations and workplace donations. People generously brought in toys, gifts and money to our donation sites. Individuals, families, clubs, churches and businesses all made significant contributions.

A very special “Thank You” to all of our volunteers from Snohomish County and beyond. With the economy down, unemployment up, this year gave us our greatest challenge to date. Despite this huge challenge our volunteers were at a record high, giving us the support to meet the increased demand. Without every one of them, we could not have met and served the needs of these families. Our volunteers were enthusiastic and warmhearted. Their goodwill touched the hearts of the thousands of people they assisted.

Christmas House is already preparing for an equally challenging 2011. With the continued support of our loyal donors and volunteers, we will continue to meet the challenges and needs of our community.

Sincerely
Richard K. Kvangnes
President of Christmas House