Shoppers at Sevenoaks Shopping Centre can save time this holiday season by using the gift-wrapping booth organized by Archway Community Services.
The service will be available to Dec. 24 at the community booth located outside of the Hudson’s Bay store.
Proceeds will support educational classes, after-school homework clubs, social activities, and events to help newcomers build connections within their community.
The Archway Immigrant Youth Services program is one of the programs that will benefit, and many of their clients will also be volunteering.
“Immigrant youth are often so motived to give back to the community and being able to gain valuable volunteer experience is another bonus,” said Coby Piazza, the program coordinator.
In 2021, $5,200 was raised which helped the Archway Community Connections Program host an International Women’s Day event, provide culturally appropriate food during events and programs, and purchase special-care items for newcomer families at the holidays.
“The extra funds are so appreciated as they allow us to provide experiences and other needed supplies we wouldn’t otherwise be able to support,” said Elise Marier, the program supervisor.
A corporate gift-wrapping service is also offered so local companies save time on their client or staff gift wrapping, while also supporting newcomers.
For more information on the gift-wrapping booth, or to sign up as a volunteer, visit Archway.ca/wrapping
“The extra funds are so appreciated as they allow us to provide experiences and other needed supplies we wouldn’t otherwise be able to support.”