MyCityCare Taber Launches 2025 Shop of Wonders Program for Families

MyCityCare Taber has announced the launch of its 2025 Shop of Wonders program, set to take place from December 1 to December 19, 2025. Located at 5130 47 Avenue, this initiative aims to provide a joyful and dignified Christmas experience for children in the Taber area.

Alex Hladun, Director for MyCityCare Taber, emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “Shop of Wonders exists to ensure every child in the Taber area experiences a joyful, dignified Christmas.” The initiative responds to the financial strains many families face during the holiday season, allowing parents to select gifts for their children at no cost while offering support and warmth.

The program began as a response to the increasing number of families struggling during the holidays. Hladun noted that the Taber chapter was established after witnessing firsthand the challenges families faced. “Since then, the program has grown dramatically and has become one of the most impactful Christmas outreaches in our region,” he added.

Each year, Shop of Wonders supports several hundred children, with the goal set for this year to assist approximately 350-400 children across more than 125 families in Taber, Barnwell, and surrounding areas. Families experiencing financial hardship, including single-parent households and newcomers, are eligible to participate.

The funding for Shop of Wonders comes from a blend of community donations, local business partnerships, individual sponsors, and fundraising efforts by MyCityCare. Hladun confirmed that every dollar and donated item remains local, directly benefiting families in need.

Registration for the program is available online through MyCityCare Taber or by calling the office at (403) 394-5912. Upon registration, families receive details for a private shopping appointment. During their visit, they are welcomed by volunteers and guided through a thoughtfully curated “store.” Here, they can choose gifts, winter wear, books, and family items—all new and wrapped if desired—completely free of charge. “Our focus is dignity, choice, and restoring the joy of Christmas for families,” Hladun explained.

Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of Shop of Wonders. Hladun described them as “the heart” of the program, highlighting the need for assistance with setup, decorating, personal shopping, stocking shelves, wrapping gifts, and teardown. Those interested in volunteering can sign up on the MyCityCare website or contact the organization directly.

Donations are vital for sustaining the program, according to Hladun. They accept new, unwrapped toys for children aged 0-17, winter wear, books, stocking stuffers, and financial contributions. Donors can drop off items at designated locations throughout Taber or contribute financially online to help purchase high-need items.

The community response to the call for donations and volunteers has been overwhelmingly positive. Hladun noted that local businesses, service clubs, sports teams, churches, and individual families rally around Shop of Wonders every year. “Taber has shown incredible generosity and has truly made the program what it is today,” he stated.

“Every year we see the relief, gratitude, and emotion from parents who simply want to give their children a magical Christmas,” Hladun continued. “Being able to play a small part in helping families feel seen and supported is incredibly meaningful for our entire team.”

Shop of Wonders transcends being merely a Christmas program; it serves as a reminder that hope thrives in Taber, and together, the community can brighten the holidays for every child.