Christmas Store opens bringing joy to Indio families

The Christmas Store in Indio brought joy to families from less fortunate backgrounds after opening Monday. The store popped up at the Las Palmas Community Church and is administered by the faith-based non-profit, The Narrow Door.

Sue Ramirez, the founder of the Christmas Store, said this was an opportunity to give back to the community in need.

“It makes my Christmas and all of the 13 years we have been doing this, this is my Christmas,” she said.

The store allows families with financial need to choose toys give as gifts for their children. They also received a food box filled with canned goods and chicken to make a holiday meal.

For Diana Mendoza, the store was a blessing for her as holiday shopping was difficult for her since money was tight and she had to provide for five kids.

“A lot of the money just goes to bills that we have to pay so you know very little goes aside,” she said. Mendoza was able to get toys for her two girls and three boys.

The Christmas Store will serve families until Thursday. If you’re interested in volunteering, you can contact The Narrow Door at (760) 775-6200.