Published November 23 2015
City employees will host a kickoff for the 29th annual Season of Sharing gift drive to benefit those in need. The event runs from noon to 1 p.m., on Dec. 1, on the first floor of City Hall, 450 110th Ave. NE.
The community is invited to share snacks and desserts provided by city staff, watch a tree lighting ceremony and enjoy musical entertainment by city staff and preschoolers from the Crossroads Preschool.
Last year, the Season of Sharing effort helped brighten the lives of families and individuals by collecting, purchasing and distributing more than 500 gifts. This year, social service providers on the Eastside say there is once again a strong need to lift the spirits of families who are struggling during the holiday season.
Those interested in helping can retrieve a gift wish tag or money envelope from a Season of Sharing tree at City Hall starting Monday (today). The requested gift, with the original tag attached, can then be dropped off at designated boxes; money donations should be left at the Service First desk. Both the boxes and desk are located on the first floor of City Hall.
A second Season of Sharing tree will be located at Mini City Hall at the Crossroads Shopping Center, Northeast Eighth Street and 156th Avenue Northeast.
City staff are working with local nonprofits to provide gifts to people with disabilities and to families. The organizations include LifeWire (formerly Eastside Domestic Violence Program), Friends of Youth, Harborview Center for Sexual Assault & Traumatic Stress and YWCA Women's Shelter. The organizations support families who may be living in poverty or who want to enjoy a positive holiday atmosphere.
The last day to drop off gift and money contributions is Dec. 16.