Deb McGrath typically connects with families through her day job as a campus manager at North Bend’s Encompass.
Last Thursday, though, she made a different kind of connection with the small family of three. She may never meet the mother and two young children listed on the sheet in her hands, but she is making their holiday a brighter one.
Last week, Encompass employees took a break from work to fill care boxes for families as part of the preschool’s Respectful Giving campaign. McGrath and other employees were given a few details about the nearly 160 families being helped this year, then scattered among heaps of donated goods.
“I’m trying to pick out things that they would need,” said McGrath, who picked out a small child’s hat first, then a Sonicare toothbrush.
Like other employees, McGrath was amazed at the Valley’s generosity. The cans of food, piles of clothing and household items stacked wall to wall at the Meadowbrook Interpretive Center was evidence of the biggest haul ever for the campaign, now in its 15th year.
The Mount Si ASB Foodball drive provided about a third of the haul. Students at St. Joseph’s school provided food as well as nearly $1,700 in gift cards. Cascade View Elementary School also made a significant contribution.
Encompass staff who volunteer to fill the boxes use their own judgment in meeting the need. Most items are food basics, but a few treats, clothing and decorations are in the mix.
“We try to put a little something fun for everybody,” said Encompass Community Activities Manager Stacey Cepeda.
Organizers learn about families through Encompass programs and referrals from the community.
Demand for Respectful Giving help rose in 2009, and is above prior years.
Donations went out to families last weekend. Cepeda said most participants are in tears when they leave, boxes in hand.
“While the holiday food drive is over, the families in need whom we are serving this season are the same ones we serve throughout the year, and the need continues,” she said. “Monetary donations help bridge the gap and serve the families directly. To support a family in need, people can send or bring in a cash donation for Respectful Giving.”
• Learn more about Respectful Giving at www.encompassnw.org.
