For five years now the staff of The Island House Hotel in Orange Beach looks forward to answering Christmas wishes for the children at Children’s Home Society in Pensacola. Project coordinators Heidi Wiggins and Marilyn Miller get the names early so that they can begin shopping, filling, and decorating individual Christmas boxes for each child. Retired staffer Margie Latham puts her special touch on each box.

Throughout the year, the staff elects to donate to “the kids” instead of exchanging birthday and Christmas gifts with each other. The Hotel contributes as well so that by the time Christmas approaches they are able to provide for a number of children. Growing participation has enabled them to add more children each year.  

When all the boxes are finished and filled, they are gathered around the Christmas tree in the Hotel lobby so that guests and the entire staff can see the results of their donations and efforts.  

It is a highlight of the season and a joy for everyone.  

 “We enjoy helping others during this time of the year, “said Barbara Walters, General Manager of The Island House Hotel. “It’s nice to know our donations help make Christmas special for these children.”