SPOKANE, WA. – Hundreds of youth and adults with autism and developmental disabilities will be recipients of Northwest Autism Center’s 6th Annual Giving Tree, but the nonprofit needs the community’s help to spread cheer to these individuals living in group homes or supported living who are sometimes forgotten during the holiday season.
“I hope this will just give them one more gift underneath the Christmas tree that they may not have had the opportunity have had before,” said NW Autism Center’s Community Communications Manager Jamie Aronson.
This year marks the first Christmas that Teresa Burgess, 35, was chosen as a Giving Tree recipient.
“I was excited,” Teresa said.
Teresa was born with fetal alcohol syndrome, and knows the holiday season can be tough for some.
“I have two death anniversaries now (in December),” Teresa said. “My father…passed away…he was my life. We did everything together.”
This December, Teresa is hoping to receive more yarn and other crafting supplies for Christmas. She has a passion for making custom art, blankets, clothes, and more for her loved ones, or even donating her crafts to spread cheer.
“Just to make people a little bit happier,” Teresa said.
Jamie said NW Autism center is about 150 gifts short of their Giving Tree goal with about one week remaining. She hopes more people will feel inspired to give.
“This program lets the community come and help get gifts and support people living in residential homes or assisted living that may not have under the tree…may not have family…so this will get them a gift,” Jamie said.
She added that anyone can either donate funds or actually shop on the wishlight listed at holidaygivingtree.org between now and when she and others will wrap presents on Friday, December 13th.
