An annual holiday tradition serving families in need is open for business up until Dec. 17.

Hosted by the Family Resource Center, a part of Readiness to Learn, Holiday House offers income-eligible parents and caregivers living within the bounds of the South Whidbey School District the chance to shop for holiday gifts, free of charge and free of judgment.

Donations from Toys for Tots and the community help keep the program going strong year after year. Cailyn Murray, the Family Resource Center coordinator, said Holiday House is expecting to help about 150 families this year – so far, 266 kids from 144 families have been signed up.

Families need not have kids enrolled within the school district to be eligible for assistance. Murray said anyone who is worried about being able to afford holiday gifts this season should give the Family Resource Center a call at 360-221-6808, extension 4321 or email rtlfprograms@readinesstolearn.org. People can also go to https://bit.ly/RTLHH22 to register.

“Even if you don’t qualify, sometimes people just have a rough year, especially in this era,” she said. “One medical bill could have you worried about what your holiday is going to be like.”

During a pre-arranged shopping appointment, parents and caregivers can select three gifts and stocking stuffers from a range of toys for each child. Though early appointments have filled up, there is still some availability later in the week.

Family Support Specialist Mary Mitchell is a homeless liaison for the South Whidbey School District. Currently, 85 students enrolled within the school district are considered unstably housed, which could mean they are living doubled up with other family members or in vehicles, shelters or substandard housing. With the inclusion of children that are not of school age, such as babies and toddlers, that number is 106.

“It’s hard to ask for help, but when they do we want to make it as respectful as possible and give the families as much choice and empowerment as we can,” Mitchell said of Holiday House.

Donations can be dropped off at the front desk of the South Whidbey Community Center Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. They can also be distributed into the various Toys for Tots boxes that are scattered around South Whidbey.

Volunteers are still needed to gift wrap at the Holiday House and to provide baked goods for the families. To volunteer, contact the Family Resource Center.

Photo provided Volunteers carry donations into Holiday House.

Photo provided Holiday House volunteers are needed to gift wrap and provide baked goods.