Holiday Shop Brings Seasonal Cheer to Elementary Schools

The Hen Hud Elementary PTA’s annual Holiday Shop has been teeming with smiling faces and happy shoppers this month who are finding perfect gifts for mom and dad.

The Holiday Shop has been open for business in Buchanan-Verplanck, Frank G. Lindsey and Furnace Woods Elementary Schools this month. These pop-up stores, housed in the schools’ gymnasiums, have allowed elementary students to drop in and shop for family members this holiday season.

“They came through the first day for a browsing day and made a wish list that they could then go over with their parents,” said Katie Strommer, an officer in the Hen Hud Elementary PTA. “They then came back a second time for actual shopping. Their parents either gave them money to shop with or they can create an account they can put money in, and then they get to shop by themselves.”

Volunteers helped staff the shop, providing shopping and purchasing assistance to students. Those duties also included gift-wrapping so to not spoil the surprise.

“They love it. It gives them a little independence and responsibility,” Mrs. Strommer said. “They have to keep within their own budget. There are sometimes some tough choices, but we help them find something that stays within their budget and works for the person they are shopping for. We try and keep them on track and make sure they keep their family and friends in mind.”