Puzzleneck launches gift wrapping by donation
Cheryl Lewis will lead Puzzleneck’s holiday gift-wrapping station in Frank, turning paper and ribbon into donations for the local food and toy hamper program. Submitted photo.
Drop off starts Nov. 15 at Frank shop, with cash going to the CNP food and toy hamper program
AA Frank retailer is turning a mountain of wrapping paper into help for local families this holiday season. Puzzleneck will offer a drop off gift wrapping service by donation beginning Nov. 15, with all proceeds directed to the Crowsnest Pass food and toy hamper program run by the Municipality of CNP, Family Resource Centre and FCSS.
Owner Randi Lynn Rinaldi said the idea grew out of a simple ordering mistake and a desire to give back.
“I am happy to have a way to give back to the community and fundraise for a good cause. Christmas is a difficult time for many and if there is something small I can do to make a difference, I am happy to do it. Looking forward to seeing how this initiative goes.”
Rinaldi has teamed up with Cheryl Lewis, who will lead the wrapping station. Lewis said she is “Doing it because I love to do it and at the same time it feels good to give back to the community.”
Gifts can be dropped at Puzzleneck, 14701 14 Ave. in Frank Industrial Park, in the same building as Randy Rinaldi Welding. Wrapping runs from Nov. 15 to Dec. 24 at noon. Store hours are Wednesday to Friday noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Drop offs outside those hours is possible by calling ahead to ensure someone is on site.
The service is by donation, cash only, with suggested amounts based on size at the counter. Small items are 4 dollars, medium 5 dollars and large 6 dollars, with larger donations welcome. It is not a self-wrapping station. Customers leave items and return for pick up within a few days. Large or complex items will be assessed at drop off. Puzzleneck is donating the wrapping paper and many of the supplies.
Rinaldi said the partners chose the hamper program because demand remains high as costs rise. There is no set fundraising target and the pair hope the convenience will encourage participation from shoppers who are short on time, supplies or confidence with tape and paper.
“Some people hate wrapping gifts, some people are terrible at it and others don’t have the time or supplies for the job. We want to help those,” she said.
Volunteers and supporters can help by offering time if things get busy, or by donating small and medium boxes, ribbon, bows and accessories. To get involved or arrange drop off, call 403 707 8574, text, or email randi@puzzleneck.com. For updates, follow @Puzzleneck on Facebook and Instagram.
Shoppers can start bringing gifts on Nov. 15. Every bundle of paper and tape will help fill local hampers for families who need it this season.