With the big day fast approaching, the Bow Valley Christmas Spirit Campaign is in desperate need of funds and toys to help make the holiday season a jolly one. Dec. 22 is the date set for packaging of gifts for those in need and as of Dec.
With the big day fast approaching, the Bow Valley Christmas Spirit Campaign is in desperate need of funds and toys to help make the holiday season a jolly one.
Dec. 22 is the date set for packaging of gifts for those in need and as of Dec. 16, the campaign is still under $10,000 toward its goal of $55,000 for cash donations, and still in dire need of toy donations for youth between the ages of nine and 14 years.
“We do have shortfalls ... the volunteers have been amazing, but we still need some for delivery night, which is Dec. 22. Otherwise, the community has been amazingly supportive,” said BVCSC organizer Janet Nystedt. “Delivery drivers are still in great need, and for donations our toys are remarkably slow this year. I don't want to sound critical but we really need toys, and we really need toys for kids aged nine through to about 14.”
Older youth are easier to donate towards with the popularity of gift cards and similar items, and a good amount of donations for babies and toddlers has been received. “If need be, we can go out and purchase, but the kids that are a bit younger, they need something to put under the tree to open, so children nine and up is a gap that we need to fill,” Nystedt said.
BVCSC offers toy suggestions for age categories on its website for those who might be unsure or even intimidated as what to purchase and donate for a child this Christmas.
“This year seems to be a Star Wars year, with lots of requests for Lego, Star Wars memorabilia and sports equipment (balls, bats, mitts, hockey gear). For the girls there have been requests towards beauty and fashion and the crafting side of things, so I think it's pretty timeless. The theme changes whether or not it's Star Wars, Barbies or Minions. Don't be overwhelmed, it's the thought that counts,” Nystedt said.
Getting a gift under the tree for every child in town is the goal, with wrapping duties provided by volunteers.
“We need the toy donations, and frankly we need cash, we're about halfway to our goal of $55,000, so we still have a lot of money to raise in a very short period of time. We're very hopeful that we'll see an uptick.” Nystedt said.
The easiest way to make a cash donation is at one of the local banks, including Bank of Montreal, CIBC or ATB, with Nystedt agreeing online is also an easy way to donate with a credit card at the Christmas Spirit Campaign website. Toy donations can also be made at the financial institutions.
Bow Valley Ford dealership, Family Community Support Services (FCSS), Royal Le Page and AquaFire Leisure are also accepting toy donations from the community.
“Dec. 22 is hamper packing day, but we honestly won't say no to a toy donation after that date, I'll take them in July, quite frankly, and put them in the basement for next year,” Nystedt said.
“I just want to say thank you as well, as times are tight this year and we understand that, but people have been very supportive and very positive and helping out in every way they can - even if it's not with money, or toys or food, but with time and words of encouragement, it's been lovely.”
Visit, www.christmasspiritcampaign.com for a complete list of toy donation ideas, or to make a financial contribution.
