Joanne Layh | Special to the 51暗网
Jasper鈥檚 Santas Anonymous program allows Jasperites to share the magic of the holiday season with neighbours and fellow community members who may not otherwise be able to take part.
The program raises funds for the Jasper community, assisting those in need over the holiday season. Organized by the Jasper Community Team Society, the program assists approximately 70 family groups each year or about 180 individuals.
鈥淕iving back is important to me. I foresee the coordination of the Santas Anonymous Program being incredibly rewarding to help enhance the community and will provide the opportunity to connect with community members throughout the holiday season,鈥� said Brett Newton, coordinator of Santas Anonymous.
To access the program applicants reach out to community outreach case workers who then get in contact with Newton to communicate their needs.
Newton鈥檚 team put together holiday packages that include items like vouchers for food and various gifts.
Younger kids often receive arts and craft supplies and things that invoke their creativity and promote development and education, while teenage recipients tend to prefer something more social like food and entertainment vouchers or sporting equipment.
For many, the greatest need is clothing and warm winter boots.
鈥淲e will always make sure that everyone gets something. The fundraising that鈥檚 done definitely is sufficient so that we can give everyone a boost at the holiday season,鈥� Newton said.
If residents would like to donate to the program there are a number of initiatives in place.
Newton says cash donations are the number one way to support the program, but there are other options as well. Cash, cheque or gift card donations can be made at 627 Patricia St. weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Another way to support the program is to visit the Jasper Library and Cultural Centre and Jasper Activity Centre, select a mitten from the mitten line and shop for the specific request inside the mitten.
Residents can also support the program by shopping local and purchasing items with a Santas Anonymous sticker or by locating collection tubes in businesses around town.
The most popular way to support the program is to hop aboard the 16th annual Santa Train, which leaves Tuesday, December 3 at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children and free for children two and under. Tickets are available at jaspersantatrain.eventbrite.ca.
The train journeys through Jasper National Park heading west. Santa will appear on board to entertain the children and the Jasper Community Choir will also be on the train to sing some carols.
鈥淚t鈥檚 basically a great opportunity to be able to give back to the community and fulfill not only a child鈥檚 wish but a family鈥檚 wishes and just have them be part of the community without feeling excluded,鈥� Newton said.
Finally, if you鈥檙e looking for an excuse to don an ugly Christmas jumper this holiday season, Dec. 20 has all the makings of your lucky day. That鈥檚 when you can donate just $2 to take part in Ugly Holiday Sweater Day.
For more information about how to donate contact [email protected] or phone 780-852-2100.
