Children throughout Portage la Prairie had the chance to receive gifts before Christmas this year, thanks to the Portage Friendship Centre’s Children’s Gift Giveaway. The event was an evolution of a program that began as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Employment and training consultant Jeanna Emms explains how the initiative developed over time.
"Before COVID, we used to have a Children's Christmas Party with a sleigh ride and other activities. But when COVID hit, everything was shut down. We still wanted to do something for the community, so we held a drive-by Gift Giveaway. Families would register, and then come to the centre to pick up a gift for their children, with Santa present. We did that for a couple of years."
Emms says that after the success of the drive-by event, they decided to expand the effort, making it more comfortable for families.
"One of our Housing Board members plays Santa every year and does a wonderful job. We set up a nice Santa chair and created a Christmas background at the Eagles Fire Youth Centre. We invited parents to bring their cameras or phones to take pictures of their children with Santa. Not all of our families can afford professional photos, so we wanted to offer that opportunity."
A total of 144 children received gifts on Tuesday night, and many were able to take pictures with Santa.
Emms adds that they also took family photos and handed out treat bags. Children had the chance to chat with Santa about their Christmas wishes. She says the turnout was great and that the format will be used for years to come.
"I think it worked out really well in the end. When we were doing it at the Centre, the line would extend all the way past our parking lot, and it was cold. We still had a line, but we managed to get most people inside to wait, so the wait wasn’t too long."
Emms notes that if the weather had been colder, it could have been more problematic.
"It was nice to see everyone, from the little ones to the 12- and 13-year-olds. It was really heartwarming."
