Christmas hampers provided by the Salvation Army will look a little smaller this year as their food bank faces the same challenges other charitable organizations are experiencing with high demand.
Capt. Brad Webster said in previous years, the food bank would be closed during the month of December and families would receive a large Christmas food hamper to make up for the closure.
"This year, we've changed things up. With donations being down and food [demand] being up through our food bank, we've decided to keep our food bank open up until December 12," Webster said. "Then our Christmas hampers will specifically look at Christmas Day, so it'll be looking after Christmas breakfast and Christmas dinner."
Webster said on average, the food bank serves roughly 487 families per month, an increase of approximately 20 per cent compared to last year.
Those in need of a Christmas hamper are asked to register in person and must bring identification for everyone in the household, proof of income, and proof of address -- they must be a resident of Sarnia, Bright's Grove, or Point Edward.
"We'll be running applications for our hamper program from November 12 until November 29," Webster said. "We'd like to do a hard cut-off on November 29 so if we can get people in [during] those three weeks, that would be fantastic."
Applications will be accepted Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. Those with questions can contact the Salvation Army's front office at (519) 330-0594.
Meanwhile, those looking to support the Christmas hamper program can drop off donations at 970 Confederation St.
New unwrapped toys will also be accepted for the Christmas toy hampers.
Webster said items for youth between the ages of 12 and 15 are especially needed as they're "the hardest to shop for."
A toy drive is also scheduled to take place on November 29 and November 30 from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. at Lambton Mall, outside of Toys R Us.