The holiday season is a time of togetherness, warmth, and generosity—a time when we gather with loved ones to celebrate and share joy. At Inn from the Cold, we understand that the holidays can be especially challenging for families facing homelessness. That’s why each year, we host Santa’s Gift Shop: a special initiative designed to ensure every family can experience the magic of the season.
What is Santa’s Gift Shop?
Santa’s Gift Shop is a pop-up shopping experience, where families at Inn from the Cold can come together to ‘shop’ for gifts for their loved ones. But this isn’t your typical store. All items are generously donated by our community, allowing parents and children the opportunity to pick out gifts for each other in a way that’s dignified and joyful. The shop is carefully designed to bring the spirit of the holidays to life, creating warm memories and helping families feel seen and supported.
How You Can Help
Santa’s Gift Shop is made possible by the kindness of people like you. With your help, we can stock the shop with new, unwrapped gifts to make sure every family finds something special. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Donate New, Unwrapped Toys & Gifts: Please consider gifts for children of all ages, but don’t forget about the youth and parents. We aim to make the experience enjoyable for everyone, so we need a variety of items suitable for all ages.
- Suggested Gift Items: Gifts for children might include toys, games, books, or winter essentials. For youth, consider items like sports gear, art supplies, headphones, or gift cards. Parents appreciate thoughtful gifts like cozy blankets, mugs, or self-care items.
- Gift Cards Are Welcome & Preferred: Gift cards to popular stores, coffee shops, or grocery stores offer flexibility and ensure families get what they need most.
The Impact of Your Generosity
When you contribute to Santa’s Gift Shop, you’re doing more than just giving a gift; you’re offering hope, joy, and the chance to create cherished memories. Your support ensures families facing difficult circumstances can still experience the magic of the holidays together. This initiative lets them feel the love and warmth of the community surrounding them, showing that they’re not alone.
Drop-Off Information
Our deadline for gifts for Santa’s Gift Shop is Wednesday, December 4. Please email us at donate@innfromthecold.org to arrange your drop-off. Every gift, no matter the size, brings joy and gratitude to our families.
Thank you for helping to make the season a little brighter for those who need it most. Together, we can create a holiday season filled with hope, love, and lasting memories for the families we serve.
Suggested Gift Items:
Here are some suggested Gift Items by Age Group:
Children (Ages 0-10):
- Educational and/or sensory toys and books
- Stuffed animals
- Building blocks or puzzles
- Art supplies and colouring books
- Winter wear: hats, gloves, scarves
- Board games for young kids
Youth (Ages 11-17):
- Gift cards for popular stores
- Sports equipment (basketballs, soccer balls)
- Board games for youth
- Headphones or portable speakers
- Art supplies and sketchbooks
- Hoodies, hats, and warm socks
Parents (18+):
- Gift cards (popular stores, grocery, coffee shops)
- Self-care items (bath sets, shaving kit, lotions)
- Winter essentials (hats, scarves, gloves)
- Household items (mugs, blankets, slippers)
- Travel mugs or water bottles
- Journals or planners
