Christmas presents donated to Canyon Lake Elementary students as part of an annual tradition

RAPID CITY, S.D. — Every year, the owners of Rapid City’s Westjet Air Center donate a toy to each child at Canyon Lake Elementary School.

Typically, there’s a Christmas party with students and their families, along with first responders and service members on hand to help give out the gifts.

While there won’t be a party this year, Westjet’s owners, Don and Linda Rydstrom, did not want a total break with tradition.

Erin Baur, Dean of Students, said, “Knowing that every kid here is going to have a present for Christmas is something that’s very special, and we’re so so grateful for the Rydstrom family to do this for us. It is such a great Christmas treat for them and we really really appreciate their generous donation.”

This is the 12th year that Westjet has purchased gifts for students at Canyon Lake Elementary.