Skowhegan charter school hosts first Giving Room

The holiday season is often filled with cheer and celebration, but for some families it can also bring worry and stress as they work to keep the magic of the season alive. Community Regional Charter School (CRCS) recognizes that the darker, colder days of winter can bring added financial pressure, particularly with the tradition of gift-giving. Through conversations about how to best support families, the idea for The Giving Room was born.

On Friday, December 5, CRCS staff came together to organize and host the first Giving Room event. Led by Casie Guillow, CRCS Outdoor Learning Facilitator, the event was designed as a joyful holiday market where CRCS families could “shop” for holiday gifts at no cost. In the month leading up to the event, donated items were collected across the school’s three campuses. Families, staff, and community members generously contributed new or gently used clothing, accessories, home décor, holiday decorations, children’s and adult books, toiletries, bikes, craft supplies, and toys.

While children enjoyed festive crafts, games, and cookie decorating upstairs, guardians were invited to fill reusable bags with as many items as they wished, with gift options available for every member of the family. The Giving Room also featured a gift-wrapping station, allowing families to wrap gifts on site or take wrapping supplies home.

The Giving Room was held at CRCS Overman Academy, in downtown Skowhegan from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., and was intentionally timed to coincide with the SKOW-Whoville Parade, allowing families to continue the evening by enjoying the town’s holiday celebration.

In addition, CRCS Facilitator Kareen Sparrow organized a project centered on generosity called Gift of Giving, a virtual angel tree. CRCS families were invited to submit anonymous holiday wishes and needs, which were then shared with staff, families, and community members who chose to fulfill them. Sparrow shared, “I encouraged CRCS to start the Gift of Giving because I want families to know that we provide more than an education – we care. We offer opportunities, support, and meaningful connections within our community.”

Together, The Giving Room and the Gift of Giving fostered a sense of togetherness and highlighted the warmth and generosity of the CRCS community.

As an uncompromisingly learner-focused school, Community Regional Charter School is proud to create opportunities that support families and reflect the true spirit of the holiday season. CRCS is a comprehensive, free, public charter school with three campuses in central Maine, serving learners from pre-K through grade 12.