On the first day that families could register for holiday help from the Snoqualmie Valley Kiwanis Club’s Giving Tree this year, more than 300 children were signed up.

That’s nearly as many children as the total number of people, adults included, that the club helped last year.

“This is going to be a huge year,” said club member Paul Tredway. “There are a lot of people who are really hurting… I’m sure we’ll exceed 500 kids this year.”

Registration for the Giving Tree is open Wednesdays during the Mount Si Food Bank distribution, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the North Bend Community Church, 126 E Third St. in North Bend. Registration ends Tuesday, Dec. 14, but Tredway can also register families by appointment on Wednesday, Dec. 15.

Valley residents are encouraged to do what they can to help brighten the holidays for families in need, either with donations of gifts or money. Gifts are accepted at any Giving Tree location in North Bend, Snoqualmie or Fall City, or you can drop them off at the Sallal Water Association, 44021 SE Tanner Rd. Suite E, North Bend, where Tredway is manager. The Mount Si High School Key Club will accept donated gifts as admission to the AlpenFolk Festival Friday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. at the high school.

To make donations of money, stop by the Sallal Water Association office. Make checks payable to Snoqualmie Valley Kiwanis. Club members will use the donated money to buy additional gifts.

Gifts will be distributed Dec. 16 and 17, so all donations should be in by Dec. 14. Tredway will be available to accept donations on the 15th, as well.

For more information, contact Tredway at (425) 888-3650, or (425) 531-1383.