The Knights of Columbus are in desperate need of donations for this year’s Christmas hampers as they are in danger of not being able to pay the bills.
Keven Gearey of the Knights said he is having a little difficulty sleeping at night because monetary donations are down.
“As of last night we had collected about 20 per cent of the funds required to pay this year’s bills,” Gearey said. “Including today (Thursday), the depot is open for another 15 days to accept donations. It is almost over.”
Gearey said he believes part of the problem is that the depot has moved this year from Tyee Plaza to the mall at 1100 Homewood Road, in behind Perks.
“The downside of the move is that people do not know where we are and this has been reflected in the donations that we have received thus far,” Gearey said.
“The reason for the move is simple: we have to find a space available at the time of the effort that is available and rent free.”
As of Wednesday evening, the Knights of Columbus have processed 907 applications for hampers, with four more days remaining for applications to come in.
“Judging by the average of 60 applications a day, we will be about 1,150 this year,” Gearey said.
To help the charitable organization fill the hampers, which contain either a ham or a turkey, toys, and other non-perishable food items, the Knights are asking for donations which can be dropped off at the hamper depot.
Donations of money, non-perishable food and new toys can be dropped off at the depot Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
“As has always been the case, these donations are absolutely essential to the success of the effort,” Gearey said.
“These hampers do not only go to the most vulnerable and marginalized but also to a large number of the ‘working poor,’ people who are having difficulty meeting all the normal daily demands placed on families and individuals.
“Further, there are many seniors, singles and couples, for whom the reception of a Christmas Hamper is central to their ability to enjoy a Christmas celebration.”
Beyond donations, the Knights are also looking for volunteers to help assemble roughly in the late afternoon on Friday, Dec. 18 and in the morning on Saturday, Dec. 19.
Volunteers are also needed to help deliver the hampers on the morning of the 19th.
For those in need of a hamper, applications are available until Dec. 8 at the Campbell River Employment and Income Assistance Office (833A 14th Ave.).
To contact the Hamper Depot, call 250-914-3716.