Christmas is just around the corner and Rudolph’s Recycle Gift Shoppe is waiting for you with open arms.
The second-hand gift shop has been successfully operated by the Maple Ridge–Pitt Meadows Christmas Hamper Society for 14 years and is a section that the registered families really look forward to.
But before any gifts can be given out, the society needs the generosity of the community to fill its hampers.
The society is looking for clothes that have been sitting in closets for two years or more that just don’t make it into the rotation, for whatever reason.
In addition organizers hope to find good toys that kids don’t play with anymore or clothes that children have outgrown, as well as warm blankets or comforters or duplicated of household articles.
All the donated items are then sorted by volunteers.
Lorraine Bates, co-chair of the Christmas Hamper Society, said the response this year is encouraging.
“The volunteer’s of the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Christmas Hamper Society are committed and dedicated to making sure that every financially disadvantaged family in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows experiences a wonderful Christmas dinner, and that all of their children from birth to 18 years receive toys and gifts,” said Bates.
On Saturday, Dec. 5, 12 and 19, the registered families will be given free shopping sprees.
In 2014, the 546 registered families truly appreciated having access to clothing house wares and toys for themselves and their children. Some families were waiting in line for three hours before the doors were opened to them.
“Even though the families have been hit with financial hardships, on this special day of the year they don’t have to worry about providing for their family, said Bates.
The gift shop, located at the Albion fairgrounds, is now ready to except donations.
“The energetic and eager volunteers are chomping at the bit and all we need is the residents of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows looking to downsize their cupboards and closets.”
Bring donations as soon as possible to the hamper office, seven days a week, between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., starting Dec. 1.
• For any questions about this and other programs, phone Lorraine Bates at 604-463-6922 or email at lorraine@mrpmchristmashamper.org.
