Ho ho ho! Santa’s helper made an appearance during the festivities on December 9.
The students attending St. Joseph’s Indian School appreciate receiving gifts from our donors – especially during the Christmas season. This kindness makes each boy and girl feel extra special.
But, part of the holiday season is the practice of not only receiving, but giving. That’s why St. Joseph’s Christmas Store is something so many students look forward to. Within the store, our students can shop – not for themselves, but for their family members back home in their reservation communities.
On Saturday, December 9, each student carefully chose items for a parent, grandparent or a sibling. To finish, St. Joseph’s staff members assisted the students as they wrapped their gifts so they’ll be ready to take home and be opened Christmas morning.
“After 20 years, I still love this day!” said Julie, a St. Joseph’s staff member. “I believe my favorite part of the day is the individual conversations I have with students as I help wrap their gifts. I learn more about their families based upon the gifts the students select, and the excitement they share within these stories. For example, ‘This is for my baby sister, she likes kitties.’ Or, ‘I picked this for my grandma. She needs a blanket for her chair at night.’ Regardless of current situations, love for family shines on this day – and there’s nothing more beautiful to see on the kids’ faces!”
One of Santa’s helpers was also there to pose with students for pictures. After all the shopping, wrapping and pictures with Santa, the participants had the opportunity to showcase their talents by singing their favorite Christmas carol with a karaoke machine. It was a very fun day.
very wonderful love for families.
Yes! It’s so wonderful seeing students be able to give to their families and experience the joy that comes from that. Merry Christmas!
A grace-filled New Year to all of you at St Joseph’s
And to you, as well! Thank you, Mary!
I enjoyed seeing the sweet faces of St. Joseph’s school children making fond memories while thinking of others.
Many blessings!
Thank you, Carol! Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas to each and every child and faculty. May you also have a Blessed New Year♡
Thank you, Deborah! Merry Christmas to you, too!
Merry Christmas to all the kids and their families , its a joy to see you all , i’m still hoping one day i can help somewhere down the road , just on a fixed income right now , and don’t have it , but by the grace of God i will one day. I remember yrs ago i received quite a few things from your kids and company , address labels , dream catchers , blankets , which i reallly , really adored , i hope to help somewhere soon , May God bless what u do and the kids and families , thank you so much and have a fabulous year.
Thank you for stopping by, Dianne, and Merry belated Christmas to you, too!
When my children were in elementary school, they were in a Catholic school system. Our school also had a Candy Cane Christmas store for the little ones so they could get something for their families.
My Candy Cane gifts were the most treasured gifts I ever received!
My children are grown now and I still treasure these gifts! Each one was specially chosen for me.
I am sure the families of these children will treasure their gifts for years to come!
Lauren, thank you so much for those kinds words and warm memories. We hope to make such an impact as you describe. Thank you!