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Local groups gear up for Christmas

Nov 28, 2018 | 9:01 AM

The Christmas season is a busy one for local organizations doing their best to spread holiday cheer.

Prince Albert’s Salvation Army has once again begun their annual Kettle Campaign.

Laura Van-Schaick with the Salvation Army said the campaign is their biggest fundraiser which funds their charity initiatives.

“So the Salvation Army obviously gets really busy at Christmas time… last week we registered 422 families for Christmas Hampers, and that’s probably our most significant project that we do over the Christmas season.”

Van-Schaick went on to say, they’ve partnered with the Price Albert Optimist Club for the Santa Anonymous Toy Drive. Santa house collection boxes have been set up around the city, where people can donate a new unwrapped toy. The Toys will then be distributed to over 800 less-privileged kids in the area who are younger than 12 years old.

When asked why the Salvation Army seems to be so prevalent during the holiday season she said it’s all about giving hope.

“Often times we’re helping families that we assist throughout the rest of the calendar year, but Christmas becomes a more intentional time when we can really make a difference in these families’ lives.”

Van-Schaick added while many of the volunteer positions have been filled, there is still a few openings if you would like to help man the kettle stations.

“You can get involved by calling Captain Stefan at 306-763-6078 or you can send us a personal message on our Facebook page.”

Another great way to help out during the holiday season is to donate warm clothes.

Donna Brooks with the YWCA said it’s a nice alternative to give back during the holidays.

“We definitely love to get donations of good used clothing because we have a number of programs throughout the community that our clients really need,” Brooks noted. She added there are very specific items they’re looking for. “Anything that’s slightly used and in good condition…. coats, mitts, boots and toques.”

Brooks said if you have gently used winter gear to donate, you can stop by the YWCA’s central location, 1895 Central Ave.

For those in need of warm clothes, shelters stay open 24 hours a day but the best time to come is during business hours.

Brooks also reminded people that the YWCA accepts cash donations year round, and especially appreciates it during the holidays.

If you’d like to donate you can go to www.ywca.ca or drop by their Central Avenue location.