Lifeline Youth Ministries helps families shop for Christmas gifts at discounted prices

ELKHART, Ind. (WNDU) - Lifeline Youth Ministries provided Christmas shopping opportunities for families in need during their fifth annual discounted gift event.

The organization partnered with area schools and local sponsors to offer hundreds of brand-new toys and products for all ages at 20 cents on the dollar. Families could purchase $50 worth of gifts for $10.

The program has grown significantly since its inception. When Lifeline started the event, they served about 200 children. This year, the executive director said they probably served about 700.

“The feedback has been very positive as, ‘You allowed me to come in, pick out gifts for my child and pay for them,’” said Lifeline Youth Ministries Executive Director Darrell Peterson. “I enjoyed the fact that I was able to pay for them. I realized that they’ve been discount, but it gave me dignity to be able to look for the presents, shop for them and purchase them.”

Peterson said watching families participate brings him joy.

“We have the ability to serve people who don’t usually get served and I get goosebumps watching the people wrap presents and the joy that is on the caregiver’s face,” Peterson said. “It’s amazing; it is my favorite day of the year.”

Families received personal shopping assistance during the event. Dozens of volunteers wrapped gifts for participants.

Lifeline also provided boxes of food for families this year.

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