600 presents distributed in Asotin in a tradition of giving

ASOTIN — When Ted Roberts opened the door Tuesday, he was greeted by two cheerful women who had their arms filled with holiday food and Christmas gifts.

The 57-year-old grandfather living in the Hillcrest Mobile Home Park was delighted with the delivery.

“This is awesome,” Roberts said as he ushered the volunteers inside. “Thank you so much. These gifts are all for my three grandsons. They really need those beds.”

Yes, you read that correctly. Among the needs met were useful items such as bedding, coats, hygiene products and food. New mattresses for the growing boys made the list.

More than 600 presents were distributed to households in the Asotin-Anatone School District through generous donations from the community. The Christmas baskets have been an Asotin-Anatone School District tradition “for at least 30 years,” and this year about 35 families and 89 kids received help.

Amber Smith, an elementary school employee, starts organizing the project in late September. Any student or parent within the district can sign up for holiday help, and their information remains confidential.

Several community service groups and school clubs often help with the drive, including the Asotin Methodist Church and a Future Farmers of America chapter. High school students assist with filling the baskets, which are delivered by parents and retirees.

“This really is a community effort,” Smith said. “We collect donations of food, clothes, gifts, hygiene products, turkeys and beef to give out. We try to accommodate the needs on each list before moving on to the wants.”

Kelsey Frisbey, 32, who lives near Roberts in the mobile home court, was happy to get items to give her son and niece on Christmas Day. She is on disability and awaiting ankle surgery.

“This is much needed,” Frisbey said. “The landlord raised the rent this month. I’m just lucky he let me move in here. There aren’t a lot of places that rent to people on (Social Security Income.)”

Across the street from the high school, students and volunteers kept busy in the AHS greenhouse as deliveries were lined out.

Whitney Bonfield Clouse, who works at the school, helped assemble the baskets and load vehicles. The wrapped gifts were delivered in black plastic bags to keep them out of sight from kids.

“We have such amazing families in Asotin,” Bonfield Clouse said, “and such a supportive community.”

Senior Jordan Erb, 17, said the Christmas baskets project is a rewarding experience and a good opportunity to show appreciation to a community that is always eager to support school activities and students.

“I love being able to help people like this,” Erb said. “I think it brings brightness to many lives during Christmas.”

His classmate, Justin Boyea, 18, said the baskets are important for residents in need of food, clothing and presents for the holiday. The turkeys and beef will be a welcome sight in many Asotin kitchens.

“It’s extremely nice to help these families during this time of celebration,” Boyea said. “They don’t have to worry about Christmas dinner because of this.”

Tara Leer, 40, was one of the parents making deliveries. She looks forward to assisting with the baskets each December.

“There are a bunch of elves out in the community today,” Leer said. “It feels good to help others out, especially during what can be a stressful time of year.”

Sandaine can be reached at kerris@lmtribune.com. You can follow her on X @newsfromkerri.