IdaHope Families hosting auction walk

SANDPOINT — The community is invited to help local kids and families in crisis.

From Dec. 3 to 14, area residents can stroll through downtown Sandpoint while exploring the storefront window displays of participating businesses that showcase auction items. 

Window decorations are provided by local businesses that support keeping kids safe and families together. Refreshments and gifts for kids will be offered at various store locations and each window will include auction items for bidding that will benefit the work of IdaHope Families. 

The local nonprofit supports families in crisis through a community of compassionate, trained and vetted volunteers from local churches devoted to keeping kids safe and families together. 

Since launching in 2020, the organization has provided 2,600 safe night stays for children experiencing temporary homelessness and offered nearly 1,100 hours of respite care for over 300 children.

“IdaHope Families has been such a blessing to the North Idaho community," Jessie Sheldon said. "There are so many families in the area who struggle with real-life problems such as substance abuse, homelessness, unemployment, trauma, and broken relationships."

Sheldon said the nonprofit acts as a safety net for those who want help and are willing to do the work to improve their lives.

"I have been very impressed with all to the free services IdaHope Families offers including mentorship, parenting classes, respite care for children, referrals for substance abuse help, and other custom services tailored to the needs of individuals and families. IdaHope Families is a tremendous local resource.”

This event will raise the funds necessary for IdaHope Families to continue their work at no cost to the families.

Businesses taking part in the auction walk include: Pend d'Oreille Winery, 301 Cedar St.; Gethsemane Oil & Vinegar, Cedar Street Bridge; Creations, Cedar Street Bridge; Eve's Leaves, 326 N. First Ave.; Azalea Handpicked Style, 322 N. First Ave.; Heather's Colors Gallery, 110 Main St., inside Sandpoint Music Conservatory; Sharon's Hallmark, 306 N. First Ave.; Barrell 33, 100 N. First Ave.; and StyleBar Beauty Bar, 111 N. First Ave.

For more information about IdaHope Families, go online to idahopefamilies.org or call 208-295-7233.