Horizon School Division Aids 147 Families with Holiday Hampers

The Horizon School Division successfully completed its annual Christmas Hamper Project, providing vital support to 147 families and 368 children during the 2025 holiday season. This initiative, now in its twelfth year, has seen tremendous growth thanks to the generosity of students, staff, families, trustees, and community partners.

Community Generosity Shines Through

Each child involved in the program received a wrapped gift, a book, festive treats, and essential winter items such as mitts, toques, and scarves. In addition, families were given a $300 grocery gift certificate to assist with holiday meals. Other contributions included hygiene products, handmade quilts, fresh farm eggs, bags of potatoes, and hand-beaded ornaments. These details were highlighted in a news release by the Horizon School Division.

According to Jesse Green, communications officer for the division, the total value of this year’s project is expected to exceed $65,000, not accounting for the substantial contributions of donated goods and services. “While Horizon’s website recognizes financial and in-kind donors, it cannot fully reflect the level of volunteerism and community spirit behind the initiative,” Green noted.

A Commitment to Community

Director of Education Kevin Garinger expressed his admiration for the community’s commitment, stating, “The heart of this project is our community. It’s inspiring to see people come together to make the holidays brighter for families. Every gift and every volunteer hour shows that people care.” Since the project’s inception in 2014, it has assisted 1,558 families and 4,086 children.

While the hampers are delivered in December, planning and fundraising for the project occur throughout the entire year. Horizon School Division continues to welcome both financial and in-kind donations to support future initiatives, emphasizing the ongoing need for community involvement to maintain the spirit of giving.