Number of Participants: 25
Hours Donated: 10
Value of Time Served: $8,698
Organization / Team: Student Council
Event Type: Children & Youth
Activity: Club
School: Win-E-Mac High School
Date: November 19, 2025
Location:
Win-E-Mac School District
MN, USA
About:
Each year, the halls of Win-E-Mac School are filled with a little extra magic as the Santa Shop opens its doors to elementary students. What began many years ago in McIntosh, MN as the “Kids Mall” has become a beloved annual tradition — one now proudly organized and operated by the Win-E-Mac Student Council.
When the original organizing group sought someone to continue the event, former student council advisor Melinda Anderson stepped in, recognizing the joy and value it brought to young children. Today, that spirit continues under the guidance of the current student council advisor, ensuring the tradition remains strong for new generations.
A Special Shopping Experience for Young Students
The Santa Shop serves students in grades K–6, offering them a rare and meaningful opportunity: the chance to independently choose and purchase gifts for their immediate family members. Since most elementary-aged children can’t shop on their own, the Santa Shop gives them a way to experience the excitement of giving — and the pride of surprising loved ones with thoughtfully chosen presents.
Every item in the shop costs just $0.25, regardless of size or value, ensuring affordability for all families. After selecting their gifts, students visit wrapping stations where their presents are wrapped with care by volunteers. The sight of children heading home with wrapped surprises — selected completely on their own — is one of the most heartwarming parts of the event.
Teachers play an important role as well, preparing students ahead of time and helping them understand that the purpose of the shop is to choose gifts for their family members, not themselves. A second day is also offered for any students who need to make additional purchases.
Powered by Generosity and Student Service
The Santa Shop is entirely fueled by community kindness. All items sold in the shop are donated by local families and supporters, making it a true community effort. This year, two local partners — Garden Valley and the Erskine American Legion — generously donated funds to help purchase wrapping supplies.
The Win-E-Mac Student Council handles all logistics, from organizing donations to setting up the shop and staffing the event. Student volunteers manage the cash register, wrap gifts, serve as personal shoppers, and even carry items for the youngest participants. The past few years have also welcomed community volunteers who join in wrapping gifts, adding even more warmth and connection to the event.
A Tradition That Teaches the True Meaning of Giving
Beyond the joy of holiday shopping, the Santa Shop is a meaningful lesson in generosity, leadership, and community spirit. Older students learn responsibility and service, while younger students experience the pride of giving. With every wrapped present, a little more kindness spreads through the Win-E-Mac community.
This cherished tradition continues to grow thanks to dedicated advisors, enthusiastic student volunteers, supportive teachers, and generous community members — all working together to make the holidays brighter for every family.
