text: Whitecourt Christmas Hamper gives families a happy holiday | Whitecourt Star
  Whitecourt Christmas Hamper gives families a happy holiday
  Published on: December 4, 2017 | Last Updated: December 4, 2017 8:25 AM EST
  The Whitecourt Christmas Hamper has begun collecting donations to help make its hampers for those in need, including families and children.
  This is the 45th year of operation for the group.
  "We provide Christmas to families in our community that need help during the Christmas season," said Val Scott, member of the Whitecourt Christmas Hamper committee. "It's a really special thing to be able to do."
  Each family hamper consists of non-perishable goods, gift cards for perishable items, toys, a family gift, a family game and winter wear for children. Last year, the Whitecourt Christmas Hamper gave out 227 hampers, which included 284 children.
  Scott said those wishing to donate should see what children like before buying toys.
  "If you have children or grand children, just take them shopping," she said.
  After the donations have been collected, Hampers are put together on Dec. 15 in a large-scale operation.
  "We have volunteers who deliver them on the morning of Deb. 16," Scott said. "Anything that comes in after the hampers are delivered would go in next year."
  Scott added that some late items might be sold to help pay bills.
  Applications for hampers can be done in-person with proof of residency at Repeat Boutique on Dec. 6 and 9 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. as well as Dec. 7 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Scott said that it is often challenging for some to ask for help during the holidays.
  "That takes an incredible amount of courage," she said.
  Donations can be dropped off in white bins set up around Whitecourt. They can also be dropped off at Re/Max on Main Street or mailed to 47 Ravine Drive, Whitecourt, AB, T7S 1H5.