Source: Strathcona Christmas Bureau Facebook
The Strathcona Christmas Bureau hasn’t faced adversity in nearly 40 years however this year is proving to be difficult.
The local not for profit’s goal every year is to provide Christmas joy to everyone in the area who may not be able to afford it, however 2023 is proving to be one of their hardest years.
Since November 1st, SCB board members have documented 100 hamper applications with more placed on a waitlist. Right now, the organisation is averaging close to 40 calls per day, at this rate the projected number of hampers continue to skyrocket towards 750 to 800 total. Which would mark a record high.
Gayle McMarthy is the Vice President of the Strathcona Christmas Bureau says these challenges can be tough to manage alone, but the community has always stepped up to show their support.
Before that surge in demand, SCB increased its capital campaign fundraising goal for the first time in nearly a decade from $100,000 to $125,000. Comparing the end of October 2022 with 2023, the food bank reported a massive 64% increase.
McMarthy is encouraging people to step up and bring donations to help with their teenage population.
To drop off any donations you can find donation bins across Sherwood Park but the group urges residents to find bins with the “Strathcona Christmas Bureau” logo to ensure the donations will stay within the community. You can also donate online by visiting their website.
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