There is a huge misconception about Lake Oswego. Yes, there are very affluent people and multi-million dollar homes, but there are also those on food stamps and living in homeless shelters (Lake Oswego has two). As a Girl Scout Troop Leader for about 12 years I met and interacted with a lot of families. I know first hand that people and families need help in this town. With the holidays fast approaching, this is a good time, if you are able, to do something kind for someone who is less fortunate. Lake Oswego has numerous ways that you can spread holiday cheer.
Fill a Stocking, Fill a Heart
Swing by either City Hall (380 A Ave) or the Adult Community Center (505 G Ave) and pick up a stocking. Then fill it with needed items and return it to City Hall by December 6th.
New/Coats/Hats/Gloves/Socks
Purchase and drop these items off at The Adult Community Center (505 G Ave), the LO Fire Station (300 B Ave), or the LO Library (706 Fourth St) by December 8th
Toy Drive
By December 15th drop off new, unwrapped, toys at the Fire Station (300 B Ave) or the LO Library (706 Fourth St)
Food Donations
All year you can drop off non-perishable food and essential hygiene items at the LO Library (706 Fourth St), the LO Fire Station (300 B Ave), or at Hunger Fighters of Oregon (4 Monroe Parkway).
Gift Cards
Gift cards to places like Fred Meyer, Target, Walmart, Amazon, Safeway, etc, can be dropped off at the LO Library (706 Fourth St), anytime between November 15th and December 10th. These gift cards will go to Clackamas County Women’s Services.
Food and Toy Drive, Drive-Thru Event
December 9th, 10am to noon, this event is hosted by The Rotary Club of Lake Oswego and the LO Fire Department. It will occur at the main fire station (300 B Ave). Food should be non-perishable. Toys should be new and unwrapped. Toy donations will be distributed throughout the local area, including in Lake Oswego, by the Tualatin Valley Elks Clubs. Food will go to Hunger Fighters of Oregon.
For me, while I love the holidays, this time of year becomes much more enjoyable when I participate in helping others. Even though the gift goes to someone else, it brings me joy. My gift to them is also a gift to me.
Thank you for reading the blotter.
Dianne