Registration for Christmas hampers up 25 per cent
Nov 30, 2009 - 03:24 PM
By Reka Szekely
AJAX-PICKERING -- Its trademark red kettles are out and the Salvation Army is hoping people will fill them up this holiday season, because of growing need in the community this year.
Usually, the Ajax and Pickering Salvation Army registers 300 to 350 families for its Christmas hampers. This year, the number is higher.
"This year, we're probably up by 25 per cent," said Dick Crosby, coordinator of community and family services for the organization.
The hampers are generally intended for families because they include gifts for children.
"We provide toys and gifts up to age 17 and a little bit of extra food and usually a gift voucher to help the families make Christmas a little better," said Mr. Crosby.
This year the gift voucher is for Loblaws.
The Salvation Army receives toy donations through the Durham Regional Police's food and toy drive. Residents can also drop off new unwrapped toys at the Toy Mountain donation site at the Pickering Town Centre or directly at the Salvation Army's Kings Crescent location in Ajax.
Mr. Crosby said collecting presents for teenagers remains a challenge.
"We usually do very well for the younger ages, it's always the teenagers that are a problem," he said. Suggestions for that age group include razors, perfumes, soaps, movie passes and DVDs.
In terms of food, the organization is, as usual, looking for non-perishable items.
"The Christmas items are good," said Mr. Crosby. "Christmas cookies and stuff like that. Obviously things like stuffing and cranberry sauce, anything people would like to enjoy at Christmas themselves."
The Salvation Army is still looking for volunteers for the holiday campaign and the organization will be helping people until the last minute.
"We'll be open on the 24th for people who have been suddenly caught short and are unable to do anything for Christmas," said Mr. Crosby.
For more information, call 905-427-7123. The Salvation Army's House of Hope Ajax and Pickering is located at 37 Kings Cres. in Ajax.
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