Federal Way organizations help those in need, spread joy this holiday season

Food donations, gifts for local families, toy drives and more.

By Olivia Sullivan • December 29, 2021 4:00 pm

Generosity was in the air this holiday season in Federal Way. Throughout the month of December, several local organizations made it their mission to help others in need of food, gifts, Christmas cheer, and more.

• Santa Parades with South King Fire: South King Fire and Rescue spent three weekends touring the Des Moines, Federal Way and unincorporated King County neighborhoods with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Kick-starting the parades, Santa Claus landed at the Steven J. Underwood Memorial Park in Des Moines on Dec. 3 where a small event raised over $3,000 for school kids. The Santa Parades raised more than 2,350 pounds of canned food for local food banks.

• Forgotten Senior program: Jeri-Lynn Clark, executive assistant to the Federal Way City Council, organized the Forgotten Senior program for residents at the Avalon Adult Care facility. Gifts and cards were donated by Pacific Christian Academy, Family Life, Steele Lake Presbyterian Church and city staff. In total, about 25 residents were served.

• Federal Way Cares for Kids toy drive and event: This collaborative event is made possible by local churches, Federal Way Police Department, South King Fire, Federal Way Public Schools, Communities in Schools, local businesses and individual volunteers. Gift cards and toys are collected, then parents are invited each year to shop for their kids. A total of 206 families were served by the Federal Way Cares for Kids holiday event.

• Young Life Capernaum: Families participated in a drive-thru treats event that included hot chocolate, ice cream and other treat bags. The event was also attended by Olaf, Santa Claus and two mini ponies.

• The Federal Way Vet Center donated toys, gift cards and food to 85 household, serving 35 kids.

• Uncommon Christian Community: Federal Way-based Uncommon Christian Community provided a $700 check, $100 in gift cards, and a trunk filled with donated toys to Olive Crest, a nonprofit helping foster kids and families, for Christmas.

• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: Members of Federal Way’s LDS church community prepared treat baskets for the staff at World Relief who are helping Afghan refugees transition to living in the local community. Baskets included Crumbl Cookies and other sweets.