Popular Alternative Christmas Store at First United Opens Sunday

Looking for a gift that's unique and off the beaten path?

Surprise someone special with a gift that your can't get from a department store at First United Chuch's annual Alternative Christmas Store, which opens this weekend on Sunday, Dec. 2.

The store will be open on Sundays during the holiday season from 9:30-11 a.m. and again from 12-12:30 p.m. on Dec. 2, 9, 16 and 23.

The Alternative Christmas Store was started with the thought that the true meaning of Christmas is goodwill towards others, according to organizers. Shopping at the store, they said, allows customers to enjoy the gift giving season while also helping families who are living on day-to-day basis.

The store's products are supplied by various worker cooperatives around the world, such as Colores del Pueblo (Guatemalan goods), SERRV (artisans from around the world), Equal Exchange (fair trade coffee & chocolate), Church World Service, Cluster Tutoring, Erie House pecans and Palestinian olive oil.

Locally, the store also helps support PADS, the Oak Park and River Forest Food Pantry and the Walk-In Ministry.

The Alternative Christmas Store offers handmade items such as scarves, jewelry and ornaments, along with soup, coffee, chocolate and donation opportunities.