Holiday Fundraiser Aims to Deliver Thousands of Hampers

The 11th annual Miracle on Mountain fundraiser has officially launched, aiming to provide essential support to those in need during the holiday season. This initiative, which combines the long-standing Spirit of Christmas campaign with the Pennies from Heaven effort, seeks to raise funds for the Christmas Cheer Board.

According to Paul Samyn, editor of the local publication overseeing the campaign, the community consistently shows remarkable generosity, ensuring that the less fortunate receive vital assistance. Shawna Bell, the executive director of the Christmas Cheer Board, expressed optimism about raising sufficient funds to deliver thousands of food hampers this Christmas.

Last year, the charity distributed approximately 21,000 hampers, and Bell hopes to maintain this number. These hampers will provide food to individuals and families across various demographics, including seniors and people with disabilities. Each hamper will also include new, age-appropriate toys for children up to the age of 14, spreading holiday cheer to younger recipients.

In a significant boost to the campaign, an anonymous philanthropic couple has pledged to match the first $50,000 in donations. This means that every dollar contributed will effectively double. For example, a donation of $20 will become $40, enhancing the impact of each contribution.

Community members are encouraged to participate in the fundraiser in several ways. Until December 21, 2023, Willy Dogs located in the Deer Lodge Curling Club will donate 10 percent of all food sales to the Christmas Cheer Board. Additionally, The Battery Man will contribute $5 for every car battery sold to the cause.

On the same day, the Amalgamated Transit Union is hosting the second annual Fill-A-Bus event. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., participants can bring non-perishable food items and new, unwrapped toys to the vintage bus located at the Four Crowns Restaurant and Bar at 1030 McPhillips St.. This year is particularly notable as the charity operates from two locations, referred to as the east and west poles.

The east pole, where recipients can collect their hampers, is situated at 1441 Main St., formerly a Giant Tiger store. The west pole, located at 133 Paramount Rd. in an industrial park, will serve as the packing and distribution center for the hampers.

Bell acknowledged the logistical challenges of managing two locations but reassured the public, stating, “In the end, everybody will get their hampers.”

Donations can be made by cheque addressed to Miracle on Mountain, Christmas Cheer Board, P.O. Box 51089, Winnipeg, MB R2X 3C6. Online donations can also be made through the Christmas Cheer Board’s website, as well as via e-transfer to [email protected].

The community’s support is crucial for the success of this initiative, ensuring that those in need have a brighter holiday season.