York County Humane Society’s Christmas shop now open

It’s almost time to deck the halls, and the Humane Society of York County’s sixth annual Christmas Shop is open now through Christmas Eve and is stocked with more than a few boughs of holly.

Christmas-themed items donated year-round to the Humane Society’s PAWSibilities Thrift Shop are stored and saved for the annual shop. New items are added daily, from stockings and trees, to lights and ornaments and everything in between – all for a good cause and at discount prices – said shop coordinator Elaine Siegel.

“All the money goes to the animals, every penny,” Siegel said.

Some of the store’s items, including wreaths and garland, are handmade by volunteers and garden clubs, Siegel said. There are handmade Fort Mill High and Nation Ford High ornaments and USC, Clemson and NFL team gifts.

Regina Bryson of Fort Mill said she shops regularly at PAWSibilities, browsing for items to sell at her antique booths. But, she admits, “I end up keeping a lot of it.”

Bryson browsed the Clemson shelf and carried a basket brimming with Christmas wares.

“I do like to help out the puppies and the kitties,” said Bryson, who has two dogs and a rescue cat.

The HSYC is a no-kill shelter in Fort Mill that provides care for felines and canines waiting for adoption or foster homes.

Beverly Potts of Rock Hill said she has supported PAWSibilities and the Christmas shop for the past several years. A lover of decorating and all things Christmas, Potts said she was eagerly anticipating the opening day of the season.

“This is one of my favorite places to get my Christmas supplies,” Potts said. “I know the early bird gets the worm.”

More volunteers and shoppers are always needed, Siegel said.

And should there be any objections from significant others upon returning home with mounds of shopping bags, Siegel reiterates the point that the shopping is a donation to help homeless animals.

“Just say, ‘Honey, I donated 40 dollars and got all this for free,’” Siegel said.

This story was originally published November 10, 2015 at 4:34 PM with the headline "York County Humane Society’s Christmas shop now open."