On December 10th, GLIDE families gathered for a holiday moment that felt good the second they arrived. Children from the Janice Mirikitani Family, Youth and Childcare Center showed up bubbling with excitement, laughing, and calling out to friends. Caregivers followed with the same bright energy, smiling as they stepped inside and ready to enjoy a day that celebrated both them and their children.
At 3:00 pm, three buses lined up outside FYCC. Children spilled onto the sidewalk with excitement and climbed aboard, buzzing about the day ahead. The ride to 2 Folsom Street (where Gap, Old Navy, Athleta, and Banana Republic awaited) felt alive with energy. Kids leaned across seats to play with one another, laughing and turning the bus into its own little party before they even arrived.
This tradition started more than thirty years ago, when Old Navy first invited GLIDE children into their store for a holiday shopping experience. What began as a simple act of kindness slowly grew into a moment families could count on, a day when kids felt seen and cared about. What stayed constant over the years was the feeling that this day was about joy, dignity, and community.
This year, Gap Inc. expanded the shopping spree beyond Old Navy– Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta were also included creating a bigger and more meaningful experience. For many caregivers, choosing something new for themselves is rare. Watching them take their time, pick up different items, and accept encouragement from volunteers was truly special.
Each child and caregiver received a one-hundred-and-fifty-dollar gift card of their own to use across the four stores. Volunteer personal shoppers walked with families through each space, helped kids try new colors, carried clothing bags, and offered patient guidance. You could see the moment something clicked for a child when they found an outfit that felt just right. Their faces said everything.
Inside the building, Gap Inc. set up a welcoming area where kids could eat, rest, and play between shopping trips. Tables filled with snacks quickly turned into gathering spots where children compared what they picked out. The bracelet making table stayed busy, and the claw machine drew a steady line of hopeful players. Caregivers settled into chairs nearby, sharing stories and taking a quiet moment for themselves.
More than one hundred Gap Inc. employees volunteered throughout the event. Some were personal shoppers, others ran activities or supported caregivers. Every volunteer added to the feeling that families were being celebrated.
Dr. Gina Fromer spent the first part of the event with families and volunteers. She thanked people, checked in with caregivers, and brought a warm presence that matched the spirit of the day.
At its core, this event has always been about giving children the chance to feel good in what they wear and giving caregivers the space to feel appreciated. When a child finds clothing that feels like them, it shows in the way they stand a little taller. When caregivers are given time and attention, it brings a sense of relief that can last long after the holidays.
Families left with clothing bags and smiles that lingered long after they stepped outside. A tradition that began decades ago continues to grow in ways that honor its roots. And through every year of this tradition, one thing has stayed the same. People deserve moments that remind them they matter!