Christmas 2024 is fast approaching, and the Kitimat Christmas Hamper Appeal is once again underway. The organisers are asking for donations of food and gifts by Dec. 8 to allow time for sorting, wrapping, and packing before distribution.
“The need for assistance this past year has again increased monthly,” they said, requesting that donations of gifts be new and left unwrapped, allowing the appeal’s Gift/Toy Committee to wrap and label them for appropriate age groups.
Cash donations are also highly appreciated.
Last year, the residents of Kitimat, the business community, industry, organizations, churches, schools, and Canadian Tire generously donated $82,603. These contributions helped fill 330 hampers and provided ongoing assistance to those in need throughout the year.
An exceptionally successful food drive in September, led by Tammy Comeau of LNG Canada and supported by RCMP officers and volunteers, brought in grocery carts full of non-perishable food and cash donations.
The Kitimat Christmas Hamper Appeal operates under the Kitimat Food Bank Society. The organization is entirely run by volunteers, with most donations directly benefiting those in need. A small portion covers operating expenses.
Christmas hampers include a cash voucher, food items, and gifts for children. New toys are provided for children aged 12 and under, while teens receive gifts like music download vouchers, swim or skating passes, phone cards, toiletries, restaurant gift cards, or other suitable items.
“Gift certificates from local merchants are a wonderful idea, as this enables recipients to purchase something they would enjoy while supporting the local economy,” organizers added.
Clothing is not requested, apart from mitts, gloves, and toques, as sizing can be problematic.
Envision Financial Credit Union will once again set up a Christmas tree in their office, where donations of cash, gifts, and non-perishable food items can be dropped off. Similarly, the Henny’s Sharing Tree, located at Kitimat Insurance Services in City Centre Mall, will also accept donations. Due to Food Safe Rules in B.C., home-canned goods cannot be accepted. Cheques can be dropped off at Envision Credit Union, the Food Bank, or mailed to Box 20, V8C 2G6, with receipts provided for donations of $10 or more. For further information, call 632-6611 and leave a message.
Those requesting hampers can fill out a request forms at the Food Bank on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m., and collect their hamper at the Food Bank between Monday, Dec. 16, and Friday, Dec. 20, from noon to 3 p.m.
