Combined Christmas Giving hosts dance, auction
Money will help those in need
NEW WATERFORD — The chair of the 32nd annual Combined Christmas Giving campaign said the pressure is on to raise the money needed to help those in need this Christmas.
Organizers expect about the same number of people will need assistance this year as in 2011.
Shelly McLellan said more than $46,200 was spent last year to deal with 362 applications which included families, couples and individuals. There are currently 316 applications.
“I still have a list of names of people wanting to apply,” she said. “We will reach close to what we had last year.”
McLellan said the major fundraiser is an auction and dance which takes place Friday at the French Club.
“The community has always been a big supporter of Combined Christmas Giving and I know they will be again this year,” she said. “It depends on the money that is brought in, to determine what our kids get.”
The auction will begin at 6 p.m. and the dance will follow with music by DJ Gaye Desveaux. Tickets are $10 which includes a piece of pizza and a beverage. Only 200 tickets will be sold.
McLellan said there are a great many auction items.
“All of the businesses have been unbelievable with their generosity.”
Among the items to be auctioned off are gift certificates, comforter sets, a gift card from the Lingan Golf Club, a certificate for four free oil changes during the year and gift baskets. There will also be tickets sold for draws on a basket of toys, a painting by artist Basil McGillivray and WestJet airline tickets.
“We hope everyone will come out an enjoy the auction. Iit is a chance to start your Christmas shopping while at the same time supporting the children of New Waterford.”
Tickets for the auction and dance can be purchased at the Community Press, the Royal Bank, the Knights of Columbus, French Club or by telephoning, 304-5776.
The Combined Christmas Giving telethon will be held 2-6 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 2 at the New Waterford fire hall. Money will also be raised through tag days Nov. 28-30.
Combined Christmas Giving includes all the groups, organizations and churches in the community combining efforts to ensure everyone has a good Christmas.