Groups collecting donations for Christmas hampers
It’s that time of year again when those who can’t afford Christmas dinner can reach out for help to organizations that offer assistance during what to most is a time of celebration. The Prince George Council of Seniors, 721 Victoria St., is taking applications for those in need until Dec. 8 and delivery of the hampers will take place Dec. 21 and 22.
“People must bring in picture ID, proof of address, proof of household income and expenses,” Lola-Dawn Fennell, general manager of PGCOS, said. “We’d like all non-perishable donations to be made before Friday, Dec. 15 so we know what we have and then we’ll have time to get things with the cash donations and grocery gift cards people give us.”
Because the seniors council is a nonprofit organization, those donating cash are eligible for a tax receipt.
The council is going on an online adventure by offering insight into donations by posting what’s come in so far and what they still need on their website at www.pgcos.ca.
Donations for the seniors’ council need to have nutritional value, and please consider low sodium, low sugar options of healthy foods, Fennell said. Bulk items are not necessary, portions should be smaller, because the council volunteers can’t divvy up portions. The council will not accept gifts, especially scented items like candles, but welcome new items such as gloves, scarves, hats and socks, and don’t forget for the men. Hampers include enough food to see the seniors through to the new year, as well as ingredients for a traditional Christmas dinner.
PGCOS is expecting to distribute about 300 hampers, just like last year, so all donations are welcome.
Volunteers are needed to help between Dec. 10 and 21 to sort donations, assemble and deliver the hampers that will be put in reusable, cloth bags sponsored by the Spruce City Lion’s Club. There are even some sit-down jobs where volunteers will label the hampers so those delivering will know who gets them and where to deliver.
— see ST. VINCENT, page 2