Laughter and the rustle of tissue paper filled the room as the Junior Auxiliary of Taney County transformed community spaces into bustling pop-up craft shops where students could choose free gifts for family and friends.

JATC delivered carloads of handmade and donated items to children at Elevate, Mark Twain Schools, and Bradleyville Elementary. At each site, students browsed handcrafted wood signs, framed artwork, wall decor, games, puzzles, wind chimes, jewelry and other small treasures — all available at no cost and wrapped on-site by JATC volunteers.

“It felt like a real store, but everything was free,” said a third grader from Mark Twain School, who selected a framed watercolor for her mother and a crafted wood box for her grandfather. “I could pick things and I didn’t have to worry about money.”

Teachers from Mark Twain said “It was absolutely magical watching our kids thoughtfully choose the perfect item. The joy in their eyes was priceless! This wonderful gesture not only provided a lovely gift but also taught our students a valuable lesson in the spirit of giving.”

JATC volunteers said the goal was to give students the joy of choosing thoughtful gifts without financial pressure, while involving the community through donations and volunteer support.