By Anna Johns
WKTV Intern
The holiday season is expected to look different this year but Degage Ministries is not letting these hardships get in the way of Christmas. Degage Ministries annual Christmas Store Express has been going on for a number of years and this year will be no different, according to organizers.
The goal of the store is to help low-income and homeless residents of the Heartside neighborhood purchase holiday gifts for family and friends. They will be reselling household items, clothing, toys, and more to residents at reduced prices. The store will provide those in need an opportunity to feel dignity and value in not only choosing, but also paying for the gift items. Individuals who cannot afford the store have an opportunity to earn Degage dollars that they can use for shopping.
“This is a great way for people to bring the brightness of their lives to Christmas this year,” said Degage Ministries Event Coordinator Kristen Aidif.
Items sold at the store are donated by the community and Degage Ministries is currently looking for donations for the shop. This year, organizers have created an Amazon wishlist to make it easier for the community to help. Items can be purchased from the Amazon wishlist and will be sent directly to the ministry.
Another option is to purchase items listed on the wishlist and drop them off at any Center for Physical Rehabilitation location, which there is a location in the City of Wyoming at 1736 Gezon Pkwy., Suite 100, and near near the City of Kentwood at 7150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Suite B. These items should be dropped off unwrapped and donations must be received no later than Dec. 9.
The store will be open Dec. 16 and 17 at LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church. They are also looking for community volunteers and those who are interested can find more information here.
