Presents with a Purpose Serves 80 Cheney students this year

Former long time Cheney resident Andrew Graham, 26, is a real estate agent who is still making a difference in his hometown with Presents With a Purpose.

His organization began three years ago serving children of all ages in many areas, including Cheney. "We provide Christmas presents for kids in the school district. I meet with the principals and counselors to determine which kids are in need of Christmas presents and get them the items on their Christmas wish list." he said.

He asked the schools to list four items the student needs or wants that costs under $150 total. Graham then goes out and buys the items on the wish list and delivers to the schools. The families pick up the items at the schools before the winter break.

The organization gets donations through businesses and individual contributors, enabling Presents with a Purpose to help eighty kids in the Cheney school district this year.

Graham said five businesses were able to help and there were over 100 individual contributors. The local schools served were Three Springs High, Cheney High, Cheney Middle, Betz Elementary and Sunset Elementary.

Graham says although he serves schools all over Spokane county, he tries to keep his primary focus on Cheney. Of items on the wish list this year, he said "It is a huge variety, from snow boots and bedding to baby dolls and hover boards."

Graham said the most unusual gifts requested for basic household supplies. After inquiring about these peculiar items, Graham discovered that there are older students who have to act as parents in their household.

They may have to take care of younger siblings and family members among other duties, requiring these basic supplies he said.

Coming from a more traditional home, Graham was shocked when he found out the dire need of assistance needed in the schools.

Graham said "The first year I ever did this, I found out some of these kids were experiencing their first Christmas." he said. He said although it was a shocking discovery, it was also a motivating factor to grow the organization and serve more kids each year.

He said future plans include potential scholarships and still continuing the Christmas drive every year. Graham said helping families in his hometown of Cheney is very close to his heart.

"Helping Cheney during the Christmas season means so much to me because we know there are so many kids that are in need to experience the joy of Christmas." he said. Families interested in receiving help next year are encouraged to reach out to their prospective schools.

Anyone who is interested in sponsoring a student and donating is encouraged to reach out to Graham himself.

Features reporter, Sarah Stephens can be reached at [email protected]