Small Steps is stepping up to make the holidays a little warmer
and a little cheerier for hundreds of local children.
Small Steps is stepping up to make the holidays a little warmer and a little cheerier for hundreds of local children.
Small Steps is a non-profit, community-based organization that has a single event in November. Its mission is to buy warm winter jackets and shoes for deserving children.
Children are selected for the program by their teachers. Teachers see their students daily and, through the relationships developed with the youngsters as well as daily observation, are best equipped to determine who might need a little help that parents might not be able to provide as winter approaches.
When a teacher identifies a student, his or her siblings are also included in the shopping trip.
Small Steps receives no support outside of the contributions coming from the community. With no paid staff, 100 percent of every donation goes directly to the children.
Target and Payless Shoe Source give a 10 percent discount and open their doors to shoppers and volunteers at 7 a.m. on the big day. Each child is given $75 to $100 to purchase warm winter clothing only, which must include a jacket and shoes.
Every shopper is accompanied by a volunteer 16 or older. Volunteers must register in advance, providing name, address and driver’s license number for Megan’s Law screening. Volunteers’ thumbprints are collected on the day of the event. Shoppers need only have permission slips signed by parents prior to shopping.
This year’s event is set for Saturday, Nov. 4, and Small Steps volunteers hope to take 375 children shopping. People can help by making cash donations or volunteering time on Nov. 4.
Tax-deductible contributions can be made to Small Steps, P.O. Box 2137, Hollister, CA 95024. Volunteer forms are available by calling 638-2111.
“Hold on to your hearts!” said one volunteer. “It is a wonderful experience and a great way to give something to our community as the holiday season approaches. It’s Christmas in November!”
