When you think of life on the North Shore, what comes to mind?
Perhaps wealth, abundance and a comfortable lifestyle. Yet within our community, there are those who struggle to make ends meet. Last year, 1,860 people, including 819 children, received support through the Family Services of the North Shore Christmas Bureau.
Through the goodwill and generosity of our community, and the support of a team of dedicated volunteers, the Family Services of the North Shore Christmas Bureau helps to ensure that families have gifts to open, and a hearty meal to enjoy at Christmas.
Support is available to lowincome seniors, 65 or older, persons with disabilities and low-income families with children 18 or younger. Applicants must bring proof of address, household income, age, disability (if applicable), and care cards for each child under 18. Applications must be submitted by Friday, Dec. 5 to be eligible for a Christmas hamper. Each Christmas Bureau application is handled with compassion, respect and confidentiality. Once matched, the client's profile and gift suggestions are provided to the sponsor.
If, like many of us, you're challenged with shopping for the person who has everything, why not consider a novel approach to your holiday gift-giving? Experience the pleasure of bringing joy and hope to a senior, a person with disabilities or a family this holiday season by sponsoring a family with a Christmas hamper. Or you can donate online, mail a cheque, or bring a new unwrapped gift to the Christmas Bureau.
This year the bureau is especially in need of gifts for seniors and for children ages 12-16. Your contribution will make a world of difference. By joining together with your family, friends or co-workers, you can touch even more families in need.
Community members are encouraged to drop off donations to the Christmas Bureau, located at 113-255 West First St., North Vancouver. The bureau is open Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Another opportunity to make donations is at the Family Services of the North Shore Christmas Bureau's Fifth Annual Toy Drive, which will be held at Jim Pattison Lexus at the Northshore Auto Mall, Saturday, Nov. 29, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Janet Quenneville is the manager of the Family Services of the North Shore Christmas Bureau. familyservices.bc.ca 604-984-9627
