Crisis Intervention Services is a local organization that serves victims of various crimes, such as domestic violence, sexual assault and other violent acts. The organization typically gives Christmas gifts to its survivors during the holiday season to help with the healing process. Volunteer and Training Coordinator Pat Finan says that this year’s effort was different due to COVID-19, but they were able to provide more strength to those they serve.

“We came up with the idea of doing gift cards to local stores so our survivors could go out and spend money on things they and their families need during Christmas. Not only is it a safer way to do things, but there’s also empowerment to that too. Rather than someone giving them a gift that they may or may not need, might not be their style, the survivors were able to purchase what their families love. So that was pretty cool.”

These gift cards were purchased via funds raised by donors.