People in need of a Christmas hamper from The Salvation Army this year will have more time to apply. The group has extended its hours from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and then from 1:30Â to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Captain Peter Kim says the extension is due to the high volume of families they have seen in the last few weeks.
“We already passed the 320 mark of the number of hampers that have been requested for Christmas and we’re only in the tail end of November. We’re anticipating quite a few more people requesting hampers this year.”
The Christmas hampers include a turkey or a roast and the side dishes. This year, the group also has a toy centre where people in need can pick out toys for their children instead of volunteers picking things out for them.
Kim says this year’s numbers have increased from last year and estimates they will fill between 600 and 1000 hampers.
“We know that it’s really tough economic times and we’re actually even seeing people who are just laid off from their jobs coming. We’re very happy to help people who are in those times right now.”
People in need of hampers are asked to come in as soon as possible to ensure they will receive one. Those interested will need to call The Salvation Army at 780-532-3720Â to set up an appointment. Hampers will be distributed the week of December 16th.