Karen Garst had one goal when she came up with the idea for Santa Cares in 2018 – to make sure everyone has a gift to give on Christmas.
“[A]fter working with Sheltering Silverton and SACA I knew there were many in need,” Garst said.
Inspired, Garst developed the Santa Cares event during which community members can donate gently used items – toys, children’s books, sports equipment, anything that would make a nice gift – on Friday, Dec. 8 between 1 and 4 p.m. or on Saturday, Dec. 9 between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. at the Council Chambers at the Silverton Community Center. Then, from 1 to 4 p.m. those who would like to “shop” for free gifts can visit the same space.
“People on the whole want to help others,” Garst said of the event’s success, which has grown a little each year. “This is a small community and people see and meet people in need.”
To volunteer for the event or to drop off items outside the listed times, contact Karen Garst at [email protected] or 503-701-8911.
– Melissa Wagoner
