With the big day less than two months away, the organizers of Christmas For Everyone is collecting donations for the holidays.
The annual fundraising campaign is into its 54th year of providing toys and food hampers to families in need in rural Lambton County.
They service 22 towns with help from firefighters at 14 departments and numerous volunteers.
Coordinator Sandra Hartman said the demand continues to grow each year and, in 2024, they helped out 468 families.
"I've been doing this for 24 years now, and the past few years are the biggest by far that we've had," said Hartman. "So many families are struggling just to make ends meet to pay their rent, mortgage and utilities. They're struggling even more for things like groceries and treats and gifts for the kids."
Hartman said they often struggle with finding gifts for the older kids.
She said gift cards are often a big hit with those ages 12 and up.
"Everybody likes to buy for the little ones, it's easier," she said. "We're definitely looking for things for the older kids as well as infants up to two years old. We were struggling with that last year because there are so many babies."
Donations will be accepted at 4156 Petrolia Line from November 12 to 30.
Drop off times are Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The entrance is at the rear of the building off Robert Street.
Food donations can be brought to the New Life Assembly Church in Petrolia, from December 8 to 15.
Blackburn Media (CHOK, the FOX, COOL106.3) and the Corunna Licence Office have teamed up again for Operation Gift Card in support of Christmas for Everyone.
Gift cards can be dropped off at 1415 London Road in Sarnia on Monday, Wednesday and Friday's from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m., or at 379 Lyndoch Street in Corunna from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Typically, hampers are delivered seven to 10 days prior to Christmas as they try to gather as much as possible.
Christmas For Everyone was established in 1971 by Betty Menzies and a few of her volunteers.
The non for profit organization is not a governmental funded program, and relies solely on the generosity of donors.
Those looking for more information, or who are wishing to volunteer can call 226-349-8660.
Further details can be found on the Christmas For Everyone Facebook page.
