Peter Shokeir | [email protected]
Santas Anonymous has distributed gifts to those in need, with the support of individuals, businesses and organizations in Jasper.
This year, volunteers served 95 families, a slight increase compared to the 92 applications received last year.
鈥淲ith the help of the community, we successfully made 95 local families happy this holiday season,鈥� organizers wrote in an email.
鈥淓veryone鈥檚 participation is essential to the Santas Anonymous program.鈥�
Santas Anonymous is one of many community-driven initiatives organized by the Jasper Community Team Society with support from Community Outreach Services and the Municipality of Jasper.
Using generic paper bags, volunteers sorted and organized gifts at the multi-purpose hall over a three-day period from Dec. 18 to 20.
The Rotary Club and a few locals helped with gift sorting and on delivery day.
All the items were purchased with an emphasis on low-waste packaging, locally sourced goods and quality over quantity.
Another guiding principle was providing gifts that promote positive development, such as books, felts and creativity boosting items.
Grocery gift cards were distributed in lieu of food hampers.
Many items were bought locally, including gift cards.
Organizers added how the public was invited to shop for the kids through the mitten line campaign, and that gifts received through the mitten campaign were included in the bag.
鈥淢any thanks to the volunteers, your willingness to give your time freely is greatly appreciated. To the community, thank you for your continued support of Santas Anonymous.鈥�
