In the nick of time

Times Reporter

 

Once again Strathmore and Wheatland County residents have pulled through to help support the Christmas Hamper Society. Donations began pouring through the doors on Dec. 13 and as of Dec. 19 the tables were filled with items ready to be distributed.   

“This last week literally it just poured in. The schools particularly were just great, and the villages as well,” said Dave Collins, chairperson with the Christmas Hamper Society.   

Collins had been concerned when the tables were bare a few weeks ago, and was happy to see things pick up just in time. 

Bins had been placed at stores around town to collect non-perishable food items.

There were 230 hampers packed this year, each of which costs approximately $400 to fill. Collins said cash donations were also good again this year, allowing them to purchase things like dish soap, milk, fresh produce and a number of other necessary items from Sobeys. 

“We buy all this produce from Sobeys and Neil Kennedy is so good, he gives us a very generous discount. He’s very good, he’s a real supporter,” said Collins. 

This was the 26th year for the Christmas Hamper Society, which provides a hamper filled with food, toys and other basics for those in need. Collins said each hamper is intended to last a family for six weeks. 

Even though the distribution days for the Christmas Hamper Society are over, there will still be a need to help those in our community who are less fortunate.