Over 100 families in need in St. Clair Township are set to benefit from this year's Operation Christmas Tree campaign.
The yearly assistance program is into its 34th year.
It's coordinated by the Optimist Club of Moore and helps those in Corunna, Courtright, Brigden, and Mooretown.
President Stanley Marsh said donations of cash or gift cards are preferred due to storage restrictions. He said it also allows them to go out and buy what they need.
"That gives us the leeway to go out and buy the things that we're lacking," said Marsh. "Usually, kids of the age of 14 are missing out so we have to go and buy things for them. We're also accepting canned goods and gift cards for basically anywhere in Lambton Mall."
Marsh said the need varies from year to year.
"Last year we helped 115 people with 140 children," he said. "According to our foodbank who we deal with also, they say their numbers are up too. So, I'm expecting our numbers will also be up and we're looking forward to helping them too."
Marsh said everyone who gets the holiday gifts is overjoyed to receive them.
"We actually make people cry, they're just so happy to get some help. I've had times where I've delivered packages and they come out and hug me and they're actually crying. That makes it worth it. It's heartbreaking to see and you just don't realize."
Donations can be brought to the Emergency Services (EMS) Building at 392 Lyndoch Street in Corunna, from December 4 until the 15 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Cheque donations may be made out and addressed to Operation Christmas Tree P.O. Box 32, Corunna, Ontario N0N 1G0.
You can also send an e-transfer to operationchristmastree@outlook.com (enter your mailing address in the comment section to receive your charitable receipt).
Those needing assistance can register by visiting the EMS building from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. all the way up until December 1.
You're asked to bring government I.D. (Ontario Works or Ontario Disability cheque stub, as well as an Ontario Health Card for all children).
Qualified applicants will then receive a holiday package, delivered to their home by local firefighters on the morning of December 16.
Visit Operation Christmas Tree's website for more information.
A list of upcoming fundraisers can be found below:
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OPP Donation Drive-Through:
Saturday, December 2, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
OPP Emergency Services Building, 392 Lyndoch Street, Corunna
Simply bring a donation of cash, canned goods or new unwrapped toys to the OPP building, and you may even meet Santa at the same time!
Tax receipts can be issued for donations of $10 and over (your name and address need to accompany the donation).
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Knights of Columbus Fundraiser Breakfast:
Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, Corunna
Eat-in or Take-out
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The Nook Hair Salon Open House Fundraiser:
Friday, December 9, 2023 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Nook Hair Salon, 409 Lyndoch St., Corunna
