Washougal — Volunteers at the Hathaway Elementary School’s gift store helped students pick out holiday presents.
The store, in its fifth year, is filled with new and like-new gifts, which students can “purchase” using “Pawsitives” coupons earned as a reward for positive behavior.
“The ability to earn Pawsitives to spend at the gift store for holiday giving is a powerful motivator to help students focus on positive behavior,” Pam Clark, Hathaway gift store organizer, said in a release from the district.
Volunteers spend the year looking around garage sales and their own homes for prizes to stock the store, which has gotten so popular than now local businesses and organizations donate items, as well. Coffee mugs are a popular gift.
Last school year, the store sold out its inventory of 300 mugs. Volunteers add packets of hot cocoa mix, microwavable popcorn or other treats to some mugs. Other gifts on offer included ornaments, small toys, games, books, decorations, scarves and neckties.
