Kids get to shop at 'Winter Wonderland'

By Mary Hinds

Nov 30, 2012 4:00 pm

The Roy Bailey African American Museum will sponsor a "Winter Wonderland" event for people without a lot to spend so they can shop for Christmas gifts at a low price.

The event will give people with big hearts and small wallets a way to buy gifts for their loved ones.

"We want to get the word out to the community and the churches, so hopefully we'll have a nice group," said Mary Harris, president of the Wilson County Black History Committee.

The event is scheduled for Dec. 8 at Market Street Community Center from 9 a.m. until noon.

Keisha Pickett is the coordinator of youth activities for the museum.

"The event is designed for children who can't go to the mall and buy gifts," Pickett said. "They can buy gifts for their parents, their grandparents and their brothers and sisters."

Harris said the event is designed to give children with little money the chance to experience the joy of giving and parents a way to make sure their kids have a present under the tree no matter how little they can afford to spend.

"Young parents don't have the money to shop for their kids," Harris said. "That can make people sad and make the kids think they've been bad."

It's perfect for children or cash-strapped parents.

"There will be no gift over $5," Pickett said. "There will also be breakfast and photos with Santa and carolers from local churches."

The event will also have a bake sale and a wrapping station so child buyers can learn the joys of giving - wrapping presents, hiding them under the tree and teasing the recipient about what's inside the box. For sale will be clothing, shoes, lotions, perfumes, dining gift cards, jewelry and a lot more, all donated by local merchants to make sure everyone in the community has a chance for a merry Christmas.

"Ultimately, what we're trying to teach them is how to give back," Pickett said. "The kids can shop for gifts and wrap them to take home. They get to do it all."

Staff writer Mary Hinds may be reached at 615-444-3952, ext. 13 or maryhinds@lebanondemocrat.com.