Charities to Support this Holiday Season: Part 1 

With December quickly approaching, Christmas lights making their debut in neighbourhoods, and as the excitement in the air begins to rise, many of us are anticipating the magic of the season. However, for many, the holiday season can be challenging, and many individuals and families are seeking extra support. In this two-part blog series, we will highlight six charities that are doing amazing work in our community.  

We hope you will consider supporting some of them, in some way. 

Christmas Bureau of Edmonton 

The Christmas Bureau of Edmonton has been serving Edmonton since 1940. They provide a festive meal, and coordinate Christmas giving to those in need. Their mission is to spread the true meaning of Christmas, caring, and sharing. The Christmas Bureau provides meals at Christmas to families, individuals, and seniors. They also distribute a gift to teens aged 13-17 years old within those families. For details on how to support the Christmas Bureau, please click here. 

Santas Anonymous 

630 CHED Santas Anonymous has a very clear vision: “to see every child receive a new toy at Christmas.” Founded in 1955, by Jerry Forbes, that mission continues to be a driving force in providing holiday magic to children in need in Edmonton. Santas Anonymous depends on thousands of donors and volunteers as they deliver toys to over 20, 000 children every year. Every child deserves to feel special on Christmas morning, and the incredible work done by Santas Anonymous helps do just that. For details on how to support Santas Anonymous, please click here. 

Adopt-A-Teen 

Often when we think of Christmas, the focus is on young children. However, Christmas should be memorable for children (and people!) of all ages. Therefore, the work that Adopt-A-Teen is doing is incredibly important. Sponsored by the Edmonton Sun, Adopt-A-Teen is a Christmas gift program through the Christmas Bureau of Edmonton. Their mission is to provide a $50 Walmart gift card to teens aged 13-17 years old. While they can be living independently or living with a family, they must be registered with the Christmas Bureau of Edmonton. Since the program is funded completely by the generosity of donors, community support is crucial! For details on how to support Adopt-A-Teen, please click here. 

These are just a few of the many charities to consider helping this holiday season. Stay tuned for part two, where we will highlight another three charities.  

The holidays should be magical for everyone, and we are incredibly grateful to have these resources available in our community.