THUNDER BAY - For many people, Christmas is the season of the last minute, from shopping to preparing that big holiday meal. But organizers and volunteers with one local charity are hoping some last minute generosity will help make up for a shortfall in donations to ensure everyone has a merry Christmas.
The Christmas Cheer Fund is preparing to handout holiday hampers on Tuesday, but according to Percy Sutton, who coordinates food with the Cheer Fund, donations are down significantly.
“I think we are very low actually, compared to what we had last year,” she said. “We are hoping the big heart of Thunder Bay will come through and fill us up.”
This year, an estimated 1,600 hampers will be handed out to families in Thunder Bay, which includes more than 3,000 children.
“It provides meals for a week, they get a turkey and fresh vegetables, and the kids get toys and it’s just a nice way to celebrate Christmas by giving back to the community,” Sutton said.
The Christmas Cheer Fund began collecting food donations at the beginning of the month, with monetary donations being collected since September.
Sutton said she is not sure why donations are down this year, but she recognizes that times are tough for everyone and with many other organizations and charities seeking donations at this time of year, it can be difficult to meet the needs of everyone.
“I can’t put a value on how much we are short,” Sutton said. “I just know from looking at different areas. Like baby food is way down, and some of the meat and canned vegetables.”
Donations will be accepted until the evening of Monday, Dec. 18 at the CLE Coliseum building and hampers will be handed out on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Sutton said she hopes the people of Thunder Bay, and those who always leave things to the last minute, will help make everyone’s Christmas a little brighter this year.
“We want to make sure they all wake up with a smile on their face Christmas Day,” she said.
