Walking into the Round Hill Elementary gymnasium, I was immediately struck by a wave of Christmas spirit and joy. The gym was buzzing as dozens of young students and parents eagerly purchased Christmas gifts for their loved ones. There was festive energy in the air as students carefully selected their items. Alaina, an enthusiastic student, stated “ This is a place where everyone can buy nice gifts for their family.”
The Round Hill Elementary Holiday Boutique is an annual event organized by the PTA, where students can buy their friends and family small and affordable gifts for the holiday season. The event provides a unique shopping experience where children can feel independent while picking out gifts by themselves. Varying from beautiful jewelry to sticky slime and putty, each student will walk away with a gift that they are excited to give.
The holiday season can be a joyful but rough time for many families. Studies show that the average American family spends about $1000 on gifts and decorations each year. Many families do not have the financial means to spend this much money every year, causing stress amongst the parents. For parents trying to make the holidays the most special time of the year without stretching their budgets too far, finding affordable ways to buy gifts can be overwhelming.
Events like the holiday boutique provide families with meaningful and affordable gifts to make their loved ones feel special during the season of giving. “Tonight I bought gifts for my whole entire family for Christmas,” explained Mya, a fourth grader at Round Hill. For many students, this is their first opportunity to shop for presents independently, and it is evident how much pride they feel while doing so.
Beyond the Holiday Boutique, many local organizations are working hard to ensure families are getting to experience the joy of Christmas. One organization is the Angel Tree, run by The Salvation Army, which hosts events and fundraisers to provide families in need with gifts for their children. This organization promises families facing financial hardships can make the holidays special for their children.
If you're looking to give back this holiday season, consider visiting your local Salvation Army or other charitable organizations in the area. Even a small act of kindness can have a large impact, and it's an opportunity to share the joy and spirit of the season.
Thanks to the generosity of the Washingtonville PTA and the Round Hill Elementary community, students have the opportunity to give back to their families, while learning about the importance of kindness and the joy of giving. The Holiday Boutique was more than a shopping experience, it was a celebration of community and the true meaning of the season.
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