Stocking stuffer program sees record number of children signed up

A stocking stuffer program for low income kids in Bigfork has seen the largest number of children signed up since the program’s inception.

‘Ho, Ho, Ho,’ which stands for Holiday Operation, Hearts Open and Helping Others, was created by Debbie Ingram, who wanted to give something back to kids whose parents were going through a tough time financially. Ingram said backpacks are filled with fruit, small toys and games and hygiene products.

“Every single stocking has a toothbrush and toothpaste in it...high school and middle school kids get deodorant, we had someone donate 50 bottles of shower gel...we do bars of soap in little drawstring bags. It’s all about the presentation with me,” Ingram told the Eagle in December 2021.

She said there are 117 children signed up to receive a stocking this year, the largest number since the program started four years ago. They are short on carriers— tote bags and backpacks. She said she will reimburse anyone who buys bags for the stocking stuffers, and in the past has found backpacks on sale at Walmart following the back-to-school season. The program is also accepting donations for food items, personal care products and small toys and games.

Donations can be made at Half to Have It, Thursday-Saturday,11a.m.- 5 p.m. and the Bigfork Area Chamber of Commerce, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. This year’s Food Bank Christmas distribution day is Dec. 13, from 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Anyone with questions can contact Ingram at 406-885-7714.