SMS Giving Tree is Back

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint Middle Schools “Giving Tree” program is for any family that needs a little extra assistance during the holiday season.

Kendall Lang, the school’s seventh grade counselor, said referrals usually come from teachers, but families can also self-refer.

In the past at SMS, specific gift ideas were placed on the tree for unidentified students. Due to COVID-19, SMS had to change their practice to provide referred students with gift bags which include a blanket, hot cocoa kit, an insulated beverage container, assorted gift cards and other miscellaneous items.

Families in support can contribute to the cause by making a donation to the Giving Tree

Fund in an effort to help purchase these items. Anyone interested in contributing can stop by the SMS front office and give a check or cash to the bookkeeper.

Parents of the referred students will be able to stop by the school and pick up their student's gift bag to take home before winter break.

"For many, this is a very special time of year as the true meaning of giving is always astonishing as well as the strong sense of community that is present,” SMS counselor Jessica Lippi said. “We invite anybody who would like to participate.”