Christmas gift giveaway elicits wide eyes from more than 275 foster children

When the curtains pulled back revealing row after row of Christmas presents, an audible gasp ran through the crowd at Post Falls High School on Saturday.

“This has simply got to be one of the most incredible programs put together,” said Teresa Morgan, a 43-year-old Coeur d’Alene woman and foster parent to her two grandchildren. “It gives me goose bumps.”

More than 275 foster children attended the holiday gift giveaway, now in its seventh year. Organized by the Idaho Youth Ranch’s foster care and adoption workers, the program is a bright spot for foster families across North Idaho who often struggle to save enough money for presents during the holiday season, according to Donna Euler, adoption coordinator for the ranch.

“It’s an appreciation for the foster parents as well as a celebration for the foster children who may not be able to see their parents during the holidays,” Euler said.

By the time the free breakfast finished Saturday, the crowd was full of nervous anticipation. Law enforcement officers lugged in garbage bags full of teddy bears and stuffed toys. A ranch employee calmed the crowd by announcing that Santa was running a bit late.

Children peeked through the windows looking for Santa or huddled near the stage wondering what lay behind the curtains.

“Sometimes the kids can’t control themselves,” Euler said, with a laugh.

Carolyn Smalley, a Cataldo woman who cares for her 8-year-old granddaughter, said that although she works two jobs, it can be difficult to set aside enough money for the holidays.

Last year, the gift drive stepped in with dolls, clothes, books and games for Smalley’s granddaughter, Makayla.

“The first time we didn’t know what to expect,” Smalley said. “We were overwhelmed. Almost anything that a little child could wish for, they manage to come up with it.”

When Santa strolled to the stage – at last! – the crowd was peppered with wide eyes and big waves.

Within minutes, the presents began to open, unleashing foam balls, toy cars and new bikes on the crowd.

Morgan said it was difficult not to be emotional.

“Every one of these children has had a crisis in their life,” she said, “but you wouldn’t know it by looking at them today.”