It can be one of the more fun and stressful times of the year, holiday shopping. We’re all searching for the perfect gifts to give to friends and family, while keeping the credit card balances to a minimum. Since 2002, the annual Gifford Gift Certificate allows Gifford employees to shop for what they want without having to spend a dime all while helping to support local businesses in our area.
“The Gifford Gift Certificates are a holiday tradition and are a sincere thank you for all the work our colleagues do on a daily basis,” Vice President of Development and Marketing, Ashley Lincoln said.
“It’s a really great way to recognize employees,” Community Relations Coordinator, Katja Evans said. “And to just know Gifford is not only supporting employees but the local businesses in our community as well.”
Throughout December, employees can use the certificates just like cash, spending them at several participating local businesses. The local business will then be reimbursed for the certificates.
“Every year, we invest close to $40,000 back into the local economy,” Lincoln said.
With the increased financial challenges during the pandemic, these certificates have served as a much-needed boost for these local businesses.
“It’s hard these days,” says Debra Bacon, co-owner of Dandelion Acres in Bethel. “In these times, it’s good to keep that money local if we can. To take part in it is great for us.”
Dandelion Acres has been in business for 18 years, selling pre-started vegetables for people who want to have gardens, but don’t necessarily have the space to start with seeds. But if you do want to start with seeds, Dandelion Acres has the starting tools you’ll need including soil and fertilizer. Once fall turns to winter, Dandelion Acres becomes a home for holiday decorations, selling ornaments and gifts.
“It’s a pretty generous thing they’re doing for their employees,” Bacon said. “It’s a nice gift for them and then it helps support all the local businesses.”
Dandelion Acres and Chef’s Market in Randolph are just two of 20 local businesses participating this year.
“The importance of buying local is to support our neighbors, to be here for the community, and to offer as much organic and Vermont grown products as possible,” Tammy Aronson, co-owner of Chef’s Market says.
Chef’s Market started in 2007 to help farmers and local food producers moved. The market moved to the center of town a couple of years ago and now offers a restaurant.
“It’s amazing to have Gifford here in our town,” Aronson said. “For them to support us with these gift certificates and to also support the shops in our neighborhood, is just a wonderful support system both ways.”
Over the last year, Gifford employees have needed support. Staffing and bed shortages combined with the pandemic have put a great deal of strain on the staff, providers, and nurses throughout the hospital, clinics, and senior living community.
In a letter to Gifford employees containing the gift certificates, CEO and President, Dan Bennett said, “You are at the heart of Gifford and your good work is deeply appreciated. We are able to give our community the highest quality of care because of you.”
“Gifford sees the value and importance of partnering with our community businesses, so having this opportunity to keep our money local and support our businesses through these gift certificates is a great way to celebrate the holidays,” Evans said.
