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Cloverdale Christmas Hamper appeal is underway

Organizers of the non-denominational relief program for Cloverdale residents in need are asking for the public's support.
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The deadline for donations to the Cloverdale Christmas Hamper Program is Dec. 10.

If you’re in need, the Cloverdale Christmas Hamper Program is there to help.

The locally-operated volunteer initiative runs through the combined efforts of an entire community of individuals and groups, distributing hampers and gifts to Cloverdale’s less fortunate residents.

Churches, schools, plus many businesses and organizations all work together to ensure Christmas comes to everyone in Cloverdale.

Last year, more than $50,000 in donations of cash and food helped 325 adults and 200 children.

“That’s about 300 families,” says Kevin Lunder, who heads up the program along with his wife, Trish.  The Lunders are members of Pacific Community Church at 5337 180 Street, which acts as a nerve centre each December, when hundreds of hampers are assembled inside its ample warehouse and a large toy room is created.

Already more than 200 donation boxes have been deployed across Cloverdale, inside businesses and schools.

“This year, more than ever, we need the cash donations,” says Kevin, who also asks that people who are donating non-perishable food items ensure that any canned goods are not past their expiration date.

He asks that donations are in no later than Dec. 10, to leave enough time to assemble the hampers. “More than 800 boxes of food are put together, which is huge.”

http://raven.b-it.ca/portals/uploads/cloverdale/.DIR288/wWarehouseGroup.jpgThe program will need volunteers to help work on the assembly line at the warehouse during “Hamper Week,” Monday Dec. 10 to Saturday, Dec. 15, between the hours of 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily.  Shifts of 1 to 2 hours are available, or whatever you can spare.

This year’s application deadline is Tuesday, Dec. 5. Application forms can be downloaded at http://cloverdalechristmashampers.wordpress.com/.

Hamper pick up is Saturday, Dec. 15 at Pacific Community Church.

For more information about volunteering, donating or applying, call 604-574-4001 Ext. 107. Or visit www.pacificcommunity.ca.

Donations of cash, food, merchandise and gifts are accepted. Cash donations receive a tax deductible receipt. Please make cheques payable to Pacific Community Church.

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