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Article updated: 12/9/2012 6:41 AM

Carol Stream ‘Christmas Store’ helps families afford gifts

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Katrina Contreras of Carol Stream shops for her children Saturday during the 18th annual Christmas Store at the Outreach Community Center in Carol Stream. About 440 families made choices from about 3,000 gifts available at a 75 percent discount during the annual shopping event.

Paul Michna | Staff Photographer

Carol Olson of Carol Stream enjoys a cookie while listening to holiday music Saturday during the Outreach Community Center's Christmas Store. About 440 families were able to choose two gifts for each child at a 75 percent discount during the 18th annual event.

Paul Michna | Staff Photographer

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Christmas spirit surrounded shoppers at the Outreach Community Center's 18th Christmas Store in Carol Stream. About 440 shoppers chose two gifts for each of their children from a donated supply of 3,000 items and got to purchase them at 75 percent off. "Generally, these are working families trying to do the best they can for their household," the center's director said.