SEATTLE — Resilient In Sustaining Empowerment (RISE) and The Postman Seattle are coming together this holiday season to help bring joy to the children of gun violence victims in Washington state.
"We're like a survivor led organization that's really caring for and supporting the underserved, underrepresented community," said Lynniah Grayson, the founder of RISE.
The Holiday Hope Drive is supporting 30 families across Washington this year, a total of 70 children who have lost a parent to gun violence, according to RISE.
RISE said a $40 donation covers the cost of one gift per child. Those interested can also donate unused and unwrapped toys, clothes or gift cards by dropping them off at The Postman, located at 1143 Martin Luther King Jr Way, until Dec. 16.
This effort comes as gun violence is increasing in Seattle. The Seattle Police Department is tracking a more than 20% increase in shooting deaths this year, compared to last year.
The donation drive hits close to home for The Postman this holiday season after its owner, D'Vonne Pickett Jr., who was a beloved community leader was shot and killed earlier this year.
The 31-year-old was known throughout the area as an inspiration to not only his own three children but youth all over the Central District.
D'Vonne's daughter, nine-year-old Khloe, says her dad always celebrated her and her siblings.
"I was blowing out my candles and my dad was helping me because I was scared of it," said Khloe Pickett as she showed a video of her dad on her cell phone.
Khloe said although she will be without her dad this holiday season, she wants to help other kids find joy this holiday season too.
"People try to make me feel happy, so I feel like its my turn," said Khloe, as she discussed trying to get people to donate to the Holiday Hope Drive.
RISE is a nonprofit organization that supports marginalized communities and families impacted by gun violence.