Children at the Portage la Prairie Family Abuse Prevention Centre will be smiling today because on an Easter donation.

Heather Deamle who was born and raised in Portage is a Consultant with Discovery Toys. She dropped of gift baskets for the children at the centre for the 5th year. Deamle explains she is part of an Educational Consultants group who have put together and delivered Easter baskets to all ten women's shelters in the province for the last 5 years.

Joyce Schrader Executive Director Portage Family Abuse Prevention Centre and shares every year it's exciting to see Deamle.

"For some, it means a lot because they don't get to celebrate the holidays like regular children," says Schrader. "It's a really important time for them to see that things can be very positive for them and there is hope for the future. They're always excited to see these goodies."

Deamle shares the number one reason they do this annually is that she and her fellow consultants understand how little the families have when they arrive at shelters.

"Easter is a magical time of the year and it's good to spread that magic around and give the children those little surprises," explains Deamle.

Schrader adds its donations like these are extra special.