THUNDER BAY – The Regional Food Distribution Association of Thunder Bay kicked off its Holiday Hamper program to help support single people, couples, and seniors this holiday season.
“We may have more people that sign up, last year had slightly more people than normal, but the holidays, Christmas, it’s always hard for people because there are so many extra responsibilities, so many extra choices to make, you know, can I get pancake mix for us? Can I get some kind of meat for our meal?” said Brendan Carlin, community services manager,
“And so, we want to make those choices a little bit easier. So offering a little bit extra this time of year because we all know it’s tough for this time of year, for people who are struggling or have certain needs.”
The RFDA has operated the Holiday Hamper Program since 2013, when Christmas Cheer shifted its focus to Families with children.
Clients can register for the Holiday Hamper, which are to supplement the food hampers that clients already receive, until Dec. 13 by phone with 211 or by using the website 211north.ca for messaging. Clients can select from one of 5 pick-up locations across the city and in rural areas and distribution will be on Dec. 16 and 17.
The RFDA usually gets approximately 1200 Holiday Hamper registrations and is expecting the same again this year, so, the RFDA will be hosting a “Hamper Drive” on Nov. 27 at Superstore from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“Thunder Bay does have a giant heart and it always comes through and pulls us all together and makes sure that everyone is provided for,” said June Gaw, board chair and president.
“I am anticipating the same this year, no different.”
Donations toward the program can be made at http://www.foodbanksnorthwest.ca
