Santas Anonymous is getting ready for its 42nd year of assisting local families in celebrating Christmas, with several new fundraising events joining traditional community activities in November.
Santas Anonymous has been organized through Father Patrick Mercredi Community High School for over four decades, relying on support from students, staff, local businesses, and residents throughout the Wood Buffalo area.
The campaign will kick off with the annual Family Christmas Market at Father Mercredi on November 6 and 7. This year, organizers are expanding the market to two days and expect to host more than 80 vendors alongside a Fun Zone for children.
Hockey fans will have two chances to support the campaign at teddy bear toss events this year. The first event will take place during a Junior Oil Barons game on November 21, followed by another at the Fort McMurray Oil Barons game on November 28 at Centrefire Place. Fans are encouraged to bring teddy bears to donate, with additional bears available for purchase at the arena.
Keyano College Athletics is also joining the campaign this year. Admission to the Huskies women’s and men’s basketball games on November 27 will be available in exchange for a donation of a new toy, book, or money to Santas Anonymous.
This year, organizers are planning a new initiative called “Getting Fit with Santas” week, which will feature community fitness classes such as boot camps, yoga, and Zumba. The participation fees will go toward filling Christmas hampers.
The campaign is asking residents, businesses, and community groups for help by collecting new toys, especially gifts suitable for youth ages 12 to 18, or by making monetary donations. New toys, gifts for babies or seniors, and monetary contributions can also be dropped off at Father Patrick Mercredi Community High School.
Packing week is scheduled for December 14 to 17, with hamper delivery on December 18.
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