The program takes gently used and newly purchased toys and gives them to families who would otherwise not have presents under the Christmas tree. (Nipawin Secret Santa/ Facebook)

By Rachel May

A Christmas miracle

Nipawin Secret Santa makes Christmas miracles possible

Nov 22, 2021 | 6:00 PM

Nipawin Secret Santa is delivering Christmas cheer to children who may not otherwise experience the magic of the holiday season.

2021 marks the third annual Nipawin Secret Santa. The community-based organization helps put gifts under the tree for children to wake up to on Christmas morning.

Jessica Griffin, Nipawin Secret Santa organizer, said no one should have to choose if they can afford to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones.

“Lots of us have toys that our kids never play with. I found with my kids that was the case and when talking to other moms they found similar things happening.”

The program takes gently used and new toys, along with clothing and electronics.

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In addition to toys, there are also personal hygiene gifts given to families.

“Nipawin Dental donates toothbrush and toothpaste for almost every child that signs up.”

The program allows parents to come in and pick out a gift for their child.

“That is very important to me. I don’t know what their child likes,” Griffin added. “Some little girls like barbies, some like cars. I love that they can come in and pick something for their child.”

The program is aimed to help children up to the age of 16. Children aged 13 to 16 are going to receive gift bags.

“They will include shampoo, conditioner, soaps, etc. We have also had a ton of jewellery, purses and small electronics.”

Last year the organization gave 307 gifts to 82 families. They are expecting another large year.

“This year there are 42 families signed up. We have 141 kids signed up so far.”

For families who may need to sign up for the services, the deadline to apply for Christmas gifts is Dec. 1.

“Parents can message me on Facebook, call me at 306-862-3634 or stop by the family resource centre, Nipawin Oasis or if they deal with KidsFirst they can sign up there.”

Those wanting to sign up will need to provide their name, a phone number, affiliation with an organization for contact purposes, their childs name, age and gender.

All donations are being accepted until Nov. 29 to make arrangements for donation drop off after the deadline contact Nipawin Secret Santa.

“Last year we had an abundance of gifts leftover and they went to Cumberland house. They gave it out to their families with Christmas gift baskets.”

For those wanting to donate money, both cheques and e-transfers are accepted in the following ways:

• Cheques made out to Nipawin secret Santa
• E-transfer to: nipawinsecretsanta@gmail.com

The organization wants to remind everyone of the importance of keeping the Christmas magic alive no matter your economic situation.

“Were here to give a hand this Christmas. We want to make sure every child has something under the tree. Whether it’s from us or someone else. We just don’t want anyone to feel left out.”

You can learn more about Nipawin Secret Santa by visiting their Facebook page.

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Rachel.May@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RachelMayFM