Last Saturday at Gladbrook's Peace Church, the 12th annual Kids Shopping Day was a resounding success. Despite the icy weather and a three-hour delay due to the ice storm, more than 175 children participated, making it a memorable event. The Gladbrook American Legion Auxiliary Children and Youth Committee, along with local churches, organizations, and individuals, worked together to create this wonderful opportunity for children.

"Discover the Joy of Christmas through Kids Shopping Day"

Volunteers: The Backbone of the Event

Many volunteers played a crucial role in making the Kids Shopping Day a success. They helped the younger children with their shopping lists and wrapped their presents. As the children selected their gifts, they were filled with joy and excitement. Each tag on the presents stated "Jesus Loves You," adding a special touch to the event. Volunteers truly made this day special for the children.

One volunteer, Sarah, shared her experience, "Seeing the smiles on the children's faces as they picked out gifts for their loved ones was truly heartwarming. It was a privilege to be a part of this event and help make Christmas more special for these kids."

Another volunteer, Mark, added, "The sense of community and the effort put in by everyone was amazing. It's events like this that bring people together and make a difference in the lives of children."

The Shopping Experience: A Treasure Hunt

Approximately 175 children carefully looked through the many donated items, searching for the perfect gift for their 8-10 family members. There were a wide variety of items available, including toys, Hawk and Cyclone items, fishing, hunting, golf, and beautiful gift baskets. The children came from all around the Gladbrook-Reinbeck and GMG areas, and one mother even said that this event was all her children talked about all year.

Emma, a young shopper, said, "I had so much fun looking for gifts for my family. There were so many great things to choose from, and I know my loved ones will love what I picked out."

Parents also enjoyed the experience, patiently waiting in the church sanctuary and listening to Christmas carols played by June Bessman while viewing the beautiful decorations. It was a day filled with joy and togetherness.

Giving Back: Sharing the Joy

After the shopping was over, many of the items that were left were boxed up and taken to Westbrook Acres so their residents could shop for their loved ones. Baby toys were given to Crayon Corner Learning Center, ensuring that the joy of Christmas extended to even more people.

Jeanne Paustian, a committee member, expressed her gratitude, "An abundance of our good Gladbrook-Lincoln folks and others contributed in countless ways. Everyone played a vital role in making this year's KSD a success. We are truly thankful for everyone's support."

The children's shopping day not only provided an opportunity for the youngsters to experience the true spirit of Christmas but also created memories that will last a lifetime. Letters and calls from parents and grandparents showed how happy and excited their children were when the gifts were opened.

Paustian concluded, "Our kids have the opportunity to encounter the joy of thinking beyond self and giving. It's a beautiful thing to see the love and happiness shared on this day. Thank you to everyone who made it happen."