Kids Helping Kids: Schools Donate Holiday Gifts to CASA

CASA’s annual holiday clothing and toy giveaway (aka the Santa Store) overflowed with hundreds of gifts donated by Pine Creek High School, The Colorado Springs School, and Kilmer Elementary.

Santa received a helping hand from school kids who purchased new toys, books, clothes and other gift items for children served by CASA – children who may not otherwise have much of a Christmas this year.

On December 19, CASA packed its training room with the donated items and invited advocates and volunteers to pick out gifts for the kids they serve. Foster parents and families served by the SEPT Program were also invited to participate. 

The annual giveaway is coordinated by Karen Hilborn, a dedicated, passionate volunteer. Karen also manages the CASA Kid’s Closet year-round. All items left-over from the holiday giveaway have been added to the Kid’s Closet inventory and are available for volunteers to give to their CASA/SEPT kids as birthday presents or for other special occasions. 

“The kids from Pine Creek went above and beyond,” said Karen. “They were responsible for the majority of the donations, which made it possible for us to offer ten times as much as in years past.”

Many thanks to Karen and her crew of helpers including Fran Reichert and her son Ross, Jan Altman, Darcy Rovik, and Chris Edgar for coordinating and hosting the giveaway. 

CASA also extends its deepest gratitude to Pine Creek High School, The Colorado Springs School, and Kilmer Elementary for their kindness and generosity.  Thank you also to Jan Altman’s book group for their donation of art supplies and craft items.

A special stuffed animal, doll, game, outfit, or other gift will mean the world to a less fortunate child this holiday season. Thanks to all who participated!!

Pictured directly above: Karen Hilborn (left) and Fran Reichert (right) organize the holiday giveaway.