BANFF / LAKE LOUISE – Santa's Anonymous Banff and Lake Louise, a longstanding community-based program helping those in financial need over the holiday season, will operate a little differently in 2020, but is still committed to delivering its signature cheer to the community.
In its 36th year, the volunteer-driven Santa's Anonymous will be distributing grocery cards for those who apply online.
"With the emergency shutdown of Banff right now, there are a lot of people who are laid off and now they have to deal with the stress of not only food, but paying for rent or mortgages," said Tanya Piercey, coordinator for Santa's Anonymous. "This a little something to help out and say we're thinking of you as a community."
There are three upcoming key dates for Banff and Lake Louise residents looking to participate in Santa's Anonymous.
Due to COVID-19, the annual fundraiser at the Banff Legion won't occur. However, in its place is the the Fill Your Freezer fundraiser, where donators can stock up on restaurant-quality meat, sausages, cheese boxes, pies, and pizza, among others. Monday (Nov. 30) is the fundraiser's final day running.
The pick up date for Fill Your Freezer is Dec. 8, which will be distributed at the parking lot of Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre during the afternoon.
These donations help to acquire grocery cards for those in need. Contributions to Santa Anonymous can be sent by eTransfer to [email protected], or at the secure drop location at the Town of Banff. A tax receipt will be mailed afterward to those dropping off at the Town.
For those signing up to receive a grocery card, Dec. 4 is the deadline to apply. Applications are only accepted online this year and they can be found at http://santasanonymousbll.ca.
"Over the years, Santa's Anonymous has always been supported by residents, businesses and organizations in Banff and Lake Louise, to give and care for those who are truly in need during the holiday season," said Piercey.
