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warm clothing, backpacks & more needed

12 Days of Giving, bottle drive return to help The Mustard Seed

Dec 9, 2023 | 10:09 AM

The Mustard Seed is once again hosting its 12 Days of Giving program to help those in the most need this holiday season.

Each day, a different item is requested from the citizens of Red Deer and central Alberta to contribute to the The Mustard Seed.

“The Mustard Seed in Red Deer is so thankful for the continued support across the community and throughout central Alberta during the holiday season,” says Byron Bradley, senior director, development and government relations at The Mustard Seed.

“We are unable to care for the thousands of people if not for the continuous support and generosity the community gives. Twelve days of giving has made it possible to make Christmas extra special for the vulnerable members of the community of Red Deer. By being able to provide our guests with gifts to help them throughout the winter season like socks, coats, mittens, toques and other winter essentials, we are giving them the hope and support they need this holiday season.”

List for Red Deer

  • December 11: Men’s and Women’s New Underwear
  • December 12: Mylar Blankets
  • December 13: Thermal Socks
  • December 14: Travel-Size Items – Shampoo, Conditioner, Toothpaste/Toothbrush/Floss, Deodorant, Feminine Hygiene Products, Tissues, Lip Balm, Hairbrush/Comb
  • December 15: Winter Gear – Winter Jacket, Gloves, Winter Boots, Scarves, Snow Pants, Toques
  • December 16: Pants
  • December 17: Backpacks (dark colours preferred)
  • December 18: $5 – $10 Tim Hortons or McDonalds Gift Cards
  • December 19: Hoodies or Sweaters
  • December 20: Travel Mug
  • December 21: Long Underwear
  • December 22: Transit Tickets

Monetary donations can also be made at theseed.ca/12days.

Meantime, The Mustard Seed will also benefit from an Alberta-wide bottle drive launched this week by SkipTheDepot.

SkipTheDepot is an Alberta-based app for bottle and can recycling.

“Daily, we are seeing an increase in the numbers of those accessing our services. Your donation will allow us to provide support and safe places for those in need this winter,” said Laura Giesbrecht, Senior Director of Food Services at The Mustard Seed.

To encourage people to support The Mustard Seed’s mission of alleviating homelessness and poverty across the province, donors can use the following promo codes to donate 100 per cent of the value of their bottles, electronics, and clothing.

The Mustard Seed Red Deer – Promo Code: XMASYQF2023

“We know folks in this province really pull together in times of need,” said James Trask, CEO of SkipTheDepot. “If you provide a way for people to give back without having to dip into the household budget, participation goes through the roof.”

When SkipTheDepot picks up your bottles, they’ll also take and deliver your 12 Days of Giving items, as long as they are clearly labeled as such.