Donations are needed at the Melfort Food Bank so everyone can have Christmas dinner this year.
The regular distribution of food hampers continues at this time as well so any extra giving is more than welcome.
Secretary Ellen Zuck said a lot of new families are utilizing the food bank on a regular basis and will also be in need of Christmas hampers.
The 12 days of Christmas campaign is happening again this year to collect the items needed for the holiday hampers.
“We are taking names for the hampers until around Dec. 10,” Zuck said. “Pick-up dates for hampers will be Dec. 20 and 21.”
The Food Bank board is hoping to get at least 50 turkeys donated ahead of the holidays.
“We are looking to groups, organizations, workplaces, anyone that wants to donate a turkey or two,” Zuck said. “With the rising cost of food, it is getting more expensive to do these hampers but it is important that we do them.”
Turkey donations are being accepted the week of Dec. 16 due to limited space at the food bank for them. Cash, cheque or e-transfer are also being accepted for the purchase of turkeys.
Currently, hamper applications are at over half of what had come in at this time last year and more expected to come in over the next week.
“We will do whatever the need is and our numbers have increased quite a bit,” Zuck said.
Volunteers are always needed at the Food Bank as well.
“Three or four hours here and there is all it takes, and it’s not everyday, we can get a lot done with just three or four hours from someone,” Zuck said.
The assembling of Christmas hampers is another big task they could use help with in the next few weeks.
Call the Food Bank to arrange a time to volunteer at 306-752-4448.
Donation drop-off is on Wednesday’s from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hamper pick-up is every other Thursday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
“It has been a rough year but thanks to our community and outlining community we have been able to hand out food to people in need,” she said.
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angie.rolheiser@pattisonmedia.com
On Twitter: @Angie_Rolheiser