Salvation Army set to open registration process for Christmas Hamper program

Preparations are underway for the
distribution of the Christmas Hamper
program at the Prince Rupert Salvation Army

While the North Coast is still a few months away from the Christmas and holiday season, officials with the city's Salvation Army are already making plans for the annual distribution of their Christmas Hamper program.

As the economy of the North Coast has continued to struggle, the use of the hamper program has seen increasing numbers over recent years and the Salvation Army has had some challenges to ensure that the need in the community is addressed for those that are most require the assistance.

Once again this year, the Salvation Army is asking that those wishing to receive a Christmas Hamper stop in at the church on Grenville Court to ensure that their family is on the list.

The Dates to apply for a Christmas hamper start in November and are as follows, those making application are reminded to bring identification for everyone in their household.

Thursday, November 2 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Friday, November 3 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Wednesday, November 8 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Thursday, November 9 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Friday, November 20 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Wednesday, November 15 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Thursday, November 16 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Friday, November 17 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Wednesday, November 22 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Thursday, November 23 -- 9 AM to 2 PM
Friday, November 24 -- 9 AM to 2 PM

The date of the distribution of the hampers has not been announced as of yet, in past years it has taken place in the mid month period of December.

Last year the Salvation Army distributed 803 hampers in the community.

During a farewell address to the Prince Rupert Rotary club in February, Captain Gary Shiels noted that the need in Prince Rupert is significantly higher than in many other areas of the country.

At the time, the Captain observed that 1 in 4 residents of the region made use of the Salvation Army's services in Prince Rupert, compared to a national average of 1 in 15.

If you require more information on the program for this year you can contact Greg Silvey at 250-624-6180

Once we head into December, residents of the North Coast will begin to see the start of the annual Christmas campaign, with collection kettles set up at a number of locations around town to allow you one option for helping out during the holiday season.

In late September, Prince Rupert's motorcyclists got together for the 36th annual Toy Run, the popular local event raised thousands of dollars and delivered a large volume of toys for those in need for this season.

As the demand for assistance increases over the winter months, you can find out more about how you can lend a hand or contribute to the work of the Salvation Army with those in the most need in our community.

Call the Salvation Army at the number above, or drop into the Church at 25 Grenville Court to learn more.

Updates on their work and activities can be found on the Prince Rupert Salvation Army facebook page.