PHX Perspective

Helping Travelers and Giving Back to the Community

‘Twas the week of Christmas and travelers through Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport were heading off to see family and friends for the holidays. As an added customer service and a way to show holiday spirit and raise money for a good cause, America’s Friendliest Airport® offered free gift wrapping for an optional donation, post-security, for travelers who were carrying on their gifts.

Throughout the course of the week, approximately 400-500 gifts were wrapped for travelers, and the response to this gift wrapping program was overwhelmingly positive. “Many were excited to get their gifts wrapped so that when they reached their destination, they didn’t have to worry about it and could instead relax and enjoy their family,” said Lexie Pierce, who assisted in organizing the program. “Everyone said ‘what a great idea!’”

Additionally, some travelers saw the gift wrapping service available and took time to check out a few shops and purchase last-minute gifts for remaining family members and friends on their lists. Then, they came back and had these items gift wrapped.

All gift-wrapping was done by Airport staff who volunteered their time and volunteers from the friendly and helpful Navigator program. Donations, which were accepted at the gift-wrapping stations, benefited local United Way charities through the city of Phoenix Community Service Fund Drive. Overall, $777.24 was raised for United Way from donations by those who had items wrapped and even from those who just thought it was an excellent idea. Airport employees, tenants and travelers also donated wrapping paper and supplies. Sky Harbor hopes to offer gift wrapping stations in additional post-security locations next holiday season.