Christmas spirit alive and well in New Waterford

Combined Christmas Giving major auction dance to be held Saturday

NEW WATERFORD — Volunteers with Combined Christmas Giving are hoping once again people will jump on board and help ensure everyone in the community has a great Christmas.

“It’s hard for many people the whole year but at Christmas time when they are thinking of their kids and the bills coming in for oil, electricity and food, makes them have to do what’s most important,” said Shelly McLellan, campaign chairperson.

“For a lot of families Christmas is just at the bottom of the list. That’s where we come in.”

McLellan said this is the 33rd year for Combined Christmas Giving and the18th year for the auction.

At one time the auction and telethon — the major fundraisers — were combined. Two years ago it was decided to make them two separate events.

The auction and dance is being held Saturday at the French Club beginning with the auction at 6 p.m.

McLellan said tickets to the auction and dance Saturday are $10 which includes a slice of pizza and a beverage. The pizza is donated by Fat Boys and the beverages by the French Club

“Everyone jumps aboard to help, the businesses are great.”

Richard Fogarty will be the auctioneer and music will be by Gaye Desveaux. Tickets are available at the Royal Bank, the French Club, Lawtons and Pharmasave and at the door of the event.

The telethon is being held Dec. 7 at the New Waterford Fire Hall at 2 p.m.

Last year, more than $42,000 was raised through Combined Christmas Giving efforts.

“We are hoping to raise this or more this year because as everyone knows everything has gone up, toys and groceries.”

McLellan said there is also an adopt-a family program where people can adopt families to take care of for Christmas.

Anyone wishing to mail in a donation can send it to Combined Christmas Giving P.O. Box 7, New Waterford, B1H4E9