Two Historic Pasadena Institutions Marking 130th Anniversaries Join to Brighten Holidays for Children in Need

This holiday season, two historic Pasadena institutions both marking their 130th year have joined forces for the 10th time to bring cheer to vulnerable children.

The “Giving Trees” initiative, a partnership between Friends In Deed social services agency and Vroman’s Bookstore, allows community members to select and fulfill specific gift wishes for children.

Participants can choose snowflake ornaments displaying children’s ages and gift preferences from trees in Vroman’s Kids Department, then purchase presents with a special twenty percent discount offered by the store.

“Christmas for the Kids brings so much joy to the children and families we serve,” said Tim Nistler, Director of the Food Pantry at Friends In Deed.

Those unable to shop in person can participate through the store’s website by purchasing gift cards worth ten dollars or more, noting “Gift Card Donation for Giving Tree” at checkout.

Friends In Deed, providing services with compassion and dignity, operates five core programs: Food Pantry, The Women’s Room, Street Outreach and Housing, Bad Weather Shelter, and Eviction Prevention.

The organization maintains core values of being resourceful, interfaith, inclusive, caring, human-centered, and community-based while serving neighbors experiencing homelessness and vulnerability.

The initiative accepts unwrapped gifts purchased from any retailer, with donations being collected at Vroman’s Kids Department through December 12 to ensure timely holiday distribution.

“Every donation, big or small, adds to the magic of Christmas morning. I’ve always been a big believer in Christmas and this event, with all of our partners, and all of the families we serve, has only strengthened my belief,” said Nistler.