As the holiday season approaches, the Huron County Christmas Bureau is once again reaching out to the community for help in making the season brighter for local families in need. The program, coordinated by Rural Response for Healthy Children, relies entirely on donations and the generosity of volunteers to bring Christmas joy to children and caregivers across the county.
With no government funding, the Christmas Bureau depends solely on community support. Every dollar given stays local, directly helping Huron County families facing financial challenges this holiday season. Charitable tax receipts are issued for all donations of $20 or more.
Those who are able to give can mail a cheque at any time to Rural Response for Healthy Children, 413 MacEwan Street in Goderich. Credit card donations are also accepted by phone at 226-699-0707, extension 101. Cash or cheque donations can be dropped off in person from November 24th to 28th between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Katrina Clark, Executive Director of Rural Response for Healthy Children, said they are now taking registrations from families who could use a hand providing a nice Christmas.
"Call in if you're in need this year, and we'd be happy to help you out," she added. "We have Bureaus across Huron County. So those are in Seaforth, Clinton, Exeter, Goderich, and Wingham."
Parents and caregivers living in Huron County with children under 18 can call Christmas Central at 1-888-705-1579,
"The phone lines are open now, until the 28th," She explained. "We take calls Monday to Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If the line is busy, we encourage you to please try again, and we look forward to speaking with you."
Eligible families will be given private appointments the week of December 1 at their nearest Bureau location.
Community groups and businesses are also invited to get involved by organizing fundraisers or sponsoring the program.
Each year, hundreds of local children experience a happier Christmas thanks to the generosity of neighbours who give what they can. With rising costs continuing to strain household budgets, the need in 2025 is greater than ever. The Christmas Bureau hopes that those who are able will once again open their hearts to ensure every child in Huron County has a reason to smile this holiday season.
