Their sixth decade in Red Deer, the Christmas Bureau served 1,008 applicants this year and 855 children. (rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Alessia Proietti

Gift cards instead of food hampers

Generosity and Appreciation mark Red Deer Christmas Bureau’s 60th anniversary

Dec 24, 2021 | 1:00 PM

Wrapping up their 60th year, the Red Deer Christmas Bureau celebrated their anniversary with success, generosity, and the start of a potentially new tradition.

“Red Deer is always so very good to us. They always make sure that all the kids have toys under the tree and we can continue to provide a good service for the people in need,” said Teresa Kutynec, volunteer since 2004.

Donations came not just from individuals but an array of community initiatives like the Toque and Teddy Toss at the Red Deer Rebels game, support from “A Not So Sober Christmas” comedy and music show, the Penhold Volunteer Fire Department in memory of Chief Jim Pendergast, and others.

With yesterday being the final day for toy hamper distribution, the Bureau totaled 1,008 applications, serving 855 children.

Compared to last year, they were able to provide for approximately 150 more applicants and 150 more children.

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While the numbers remain to be calculated for toy hamper distributions and monetary donations, Kutynec says they still receive donations usually until Boxing Day.

One change this year was their inability to supply food hampers to their clients.

“Stores couldn’t guarantee that much food to us in one time,” she said. “It’s a lot of food to come up with all at once when you’re doing 1,000 hampers.”

Due to a culmination of factors from the pandemic and low supply of turkeys from the flooding in British Columbia this year, the Bureau instead gave clients Save-On-Foods gift cards. Depending on the size of the family, the cards covered the cost of a Christmas dinner, including a protein like turkey or ham, potatoes, a dessert and a Christmas breakfast of pancakes and cereal.

Despite the challenges faced, Kutynec noticed one special thing among recipients.

“On the last couple of days people were very appreciative; they really commented on the fact that they appreciated the service and they thanked us for helping them provide a Christmas for their families.”

From January to March, the Bureau will continue their work in setting up for next year including donation sorting for stocking stuffers and parent items. Closed for the spring and summer months, they will reopen in September for the 2022 holiday season.

“We always hope that there’s not as many people that are in need but we’ll continue every year.”