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Santa and his elves prepare for take off. (Submitted photo/Georgette Arcand)
Festive season

Here comes Santa Claus

Dec 16, 2021 | 8:00 AM

Prince Albert’s Indian Metis Friendship Centre (IMFC), in partnership with the Northern Lights Casino, is helping to spread some Christmas cheer.

On Wednesday, a total of 60 packages were delivered by Santa to seniors and elders in the community. The bags contained a gift, some socks, a crossword puzzle, treats and a meal. IMFC program director Georgette Arcand said the response was fantastic.

“The seniors have been calling everyday, you know making sure we are coming, and they are just happy because they don’t get out and some of them don’t get to see their families, so its nice to have this,” she said.

Santa made a number of stops across the city. (Submitted photo/Georgette Arcand)
Each bag contains a special card made by one of the IMFC’s member kids. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)
Santa may need a bigger sleigh. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

A couple weeks ago, Santa went out and did the same thing for the IMFC’s member children, and also went to five care homes. Canadian Tire donated 30 gifts for the children.

Arcand explained how normally they would hold in person events for the children and seniors, but due to the pandemic, they have not been able to the last couple years.

“It feels good to do this,” she said, adding it would not possible without the support from her staff.

A couple of Santa’s elves help prepare the meals. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

Harley Peters dressed up as Santa, and explained it was a great feeling seeing all the happy kids and seniors.

“There’s no better feeling. It makes you want to do more,” he said.

Santa keeping cool. (Submitted photo/Georgette Arcand)

Peters explained his wife works at the IMFC, and jumped at the opportunity, when asked to wear the famous red suit.

“I love it and I love Christmas all together,” he said. “I’m just grateful they gave me the opportunity to do it,” he said.

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell

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