It’s going to take a lot of money to get a group of Oak Harbor High students to Europe next summer, and they hope holiday shoppers can help.

The group has set up a Christmas shop at 770 Pioneer Way in store space donated by Annabelle Hynes, as a fund-raiser for their trip to France and Italy.

On a recent afternoon volunteer mom Kristi Merit staffed the store with Kellie Gamble, a senior who is excited about going on the trip.

“I love history, so I’m looking forward to the museums and old buildings,” she said.

The group has held several yard sales, but with the advent of colder weather it was nice to have a warmer space.

The shop has a wide variety of goods, from stocking stuffers such as small toys and craft items, to a table and chair set and exercise equipment.

It also has a large assortment of toys and games, and the staff offers gift-wrapping for a small fee. Bake sale items may also be available.

The store is staffed by all volunteers, so store hours have been a little erratic, Merit said. That should improve with Christmas break.

The shop is open daily when they have staff, Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

The group, which now numbers 23 including parents and teachers, leaves June 20 for a ten-day trip that includes Paris, Rome and Florence. The fee for the trip is $2,100 each.

The trip was organized by teachers Jim Crouch and Steve and Peggy Whiteman.

Crouch’s wife Sandra is also accompanying the group. She said it will be the first time a student group from the high school has gone on a two-country trip.

The tour is open to all high school students, and some participants are bringing older siblings as well as parents.

Crouch said they have room for more people on the trip, and will get a price break if they get 25 or more. Deadline to reserve a spot with payment is March 20.

While the shop is not officially named “Le Good Cause,” it should be. Holiday shoppers can feel good about finding gifts that won’t break the bank, and knowing they are supporting a good cause.