The Chatham Goodfellows are kicking off their "No Child Without a Christmas" campaign.
Existing clients who have signed up for a Christmas hamper in the past can register online at www.chathamgoodfellows.ca starting Saturday, November 1.
Tim Haskell with the Chatham Goodfellows said you just have to answer a few simple questions.
"Just information on where you live, how many kids you have. We just want to get the basic information so that we know what kind of basket you're going to get," said Haskell. "If you've got five people in your family, you're obviously going to get a bigger basket. If you've got one or two people, you're going to get the smaller basket."
New clients, or anyone who wants to register over the phone, can call 519-354-1146, starting Monday, November 10.
This is the 71st annual campaign, and demand keeps growing.
"Last year, we took care of about 1,360 kids. This year, we're probably thinking about maybe 1,600 families plus," said Haskell. "If you're in need, we want you to call. Don't be afraid to call if you think you are in need. We don't have any stipulations."
Last year, they spent well over $228,000.
"That's not including the stuff that comes in from people, like if you're donating a toy to us, that's not including that. So, just cash-wise, we're spending $40,000 on turkeys."
Registration is open until Friday, December 5.
Blackburn Media will be collecting toques and mitts for the Goodfellows in its parking lot on Keil Drive in Chatham from 7 to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26. The Santa's Day Off toy and food drive will take place on December 5 and 6 at the Real Canadian Superstore.
Other dates to note include the Porchlight Campaign on Monday, December 1, and Street Sales on Friday, December 12, and Saturday, December 13 at various locations in Chatham.
Toy Packing will take place Monday, December 8, through Thursday, December 11, at the former Peavey Mart on St. Clair Street, followed by Toy Delivery on Wednesday, December 17.
Food Packing will take place at the Spirit and Life Centre on Thursday, December 18, from 8 a.m. until noon, with Food Delivery to follow immediately after.
