Parents hand-select gifts at no cost; community invited to fund & volunteer
Submitted
The Grace Care Center is preparing to open its annual Choice Christmas Store in December that offers local families the opportunity to select gifts for their children at no cost in a welcoming, dignity-first environment.
This season, Grace is calling the broader community to help stock the shelves, fund gifts, and volunteer, ensuring that every parent who walks through the doors can experience the joy of choosing presents that truly fit their family.
Shopping reservations for families in need will open Dec. 1.
A dignity-first approach to giving
Unlike traditional toy drives, families don’t receive prebagged gifts. Parents are able to look through shelves of toys, clothing, and household items to choose what fits their family best. The model preserves dignity, strengthens family connection, and turns generosity into a personal, joyful experience.
Last year, the store provided more than 10,000 gifts to more than 1,000 families. This year’s goal is to fully fund and stock the store so every parent can hand pick gifts they’re proud to give.
Here’s how to help
- Give through the Online Store. Select specific items to “place on the shelves” for parents to choose. Go to us/christmasstore.
- Choose “Shop for Me.” Prefer simplicity? We’ll purchase most-needed items with your donation. Go to us/christmasstore.
- Help with guest hospitality, stocking, or checkout. Go to gracechurch.us/christmasstore#volunteer.
Donate by Dec. 10 to ensure on-time stocking before doors open.
Why it matters
Many local households are working hard yet are still stretched by rising costs. In 2025, federal SNAP benefit reductions have placed added pressure on working families, while a recent United Way study found that nearly one in three Hamilton County households now live below the ALICE threshold (earning above the poverty line but still unable to afford basic needs).
The model that Grace Care Center uses turns community generosity into a tangible expression of dignity, privacy, and hope.
When it will happen
The Choice Christmas Store will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. Dec. 21 and 22 at Grace Care Center, 5504 E. 146th St., Noblesville.
Families may reserve shopping appointments beginning Dec. 1
About the Grace Care Center
The Grace Care Center is a ministry of Grace Church, walking alongside individuals and families through weekly food support, community resources, and seasonal initiatives like the Choice Christmas Store. In 2024 alone, the Care Center distributed more than one million meals and served thousands of local households.