Erin Katerynych is the executive director of the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre. (file photo/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Angela Brown

Christmas Hampers

Empty Stocking Fund campaign now in full swing

Nov 17, 2020 | 5:08 PM

The Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre is encouraging people to give to the Empty Stocking Fund, with more people in need this year due to the impact of COVID-19.

“A lot of people are not working the amount of hours they used to,” Executive Director Erin Katerynych said, adding the province’s restrictions are taking a toll on many people’s income.

Even before the pandemic there has always been always a high demand for the festive hampers.

“We slowly go up every year with the Christmas hampers, and we don’t expect this year to be any different,” Katerynych said.

Last year 425 hampers were distributed and almost 800 gifts for children.

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People are invited to make a donation in person or online.

“This year we want to ask people to once again share the joy the holiday season, and support the Empty Stocking Fund, to make sure that everybody has food and gifts this Christmas,” Katerynych said.

She noted there will be no Big Red Boot collection bin program this year due to COVID-19 precautions.

“We are currently looking and working on different ways to raise money,” Katerynych said.

Requesting a Christmas Hamper

Families hoping to receive a free Empty Stocking Fund Christmas Hamper this year will need to submit their requests soon.

Hampers include a turkey as well as a variety of perishable and non-perishable foods, and toys for the kids.

Applications will be accepted until Dec. 4 for anyone in need in of a hamper in the Battlefords and surrounding area.

People can apply at the Food Bank at 101 Street in North Battleford. Only five individuals are permitted into the building at a time when applying, and masks are mandatory, as a result of COVID-19 precautions.

Katerynych thanks everyone who can show their support to the Christmas Hamper program.

Domino’s Pizza North Battleford recently raised funds for the Empty Stocking Fund campaign launch Nov. 12 by collecting $5 from each sale of its special.

The event saw over 50 people place orders to benefit the campaign.

—

angela.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW