The spirit of giving is alive and well in Vermilion as the Vermilion Lions Club continues its legacy of hosting the Santa Anonymous program for more than 30 years. This community initiative ensures that families with children in need experience the warmth of the holiday season through the provision of Christmas essentials.
The Toy Drive, catering to children aged 0 to 18, is set to take place at the Bargain Shop, with additional toy collection boxes strategically placed at key locations including Long’s, Shoppers Drug Mart, Mainstreet Hardware, St. Jerome’s School, Vermilion Elementary School, and the Bargain Shop. In Mannville, the toy collection site is Mannville School.
Recognizing the diverse needs of the community, the program extends its support to older children, ages 11 to 18, through the provision of Chamber Cash Cards and gift cards from local businesses.
Monetary contributions, a lifeline for the success of Santa Anonymous, are graciously accepted with tax receipts available upon request for donations exceeding $20 (deadline is December 19 for the 2024 tax year). Donors can contribute at Scotia Bank, by mail (addressed to Vermilion Lions Club at 5240 65 St., Vermilion, AB T9X 1X6), or through the white donation boxes strategically placed at grocery stores, Credit Union, CIBC, TD, ATB, and Scotia Bank, Long’s Value Drug Mart and Shoppers, Mainstreet Hardware, Craig’s Block, Western Financial, UFA, Fountain Tire, and Integra Tire in Vermilion. In Mannville, contributions can be made at Credit Union, Co-op, ATB-Mannville Registry, and Mannville Beauty Salon starting November 12. While monetary donations are welcome year-round, the deadline for toy and gift card contributions for the current season is December 5 to ensure timely delivery and pickups on December 14 from 8:30 a.m. from the ATCO building in Vermilion.
Expanding its reach beyond Vermilion, Santa Anonymous deliveries will bring holiday cheer to Mannville, Minburn, and Clandonald. The generosity of the community knows no bounds, and organizers encourage donors to leave toys unwrapped. Alternatively, consider contributing wrapping paper to enhance the festive experience.
Lions member Pat Calyniuk emphasizes the program’s impact, stating, “For those in need, it’s important because they will get a bit of help, which I’m sure they will appreciate. And for those giving, it might give you a good feeling (they used to say you receive more in giving).”
The program’s approach includes the discontinuation of food baskets. Instead, recipients will receive gift cards or certificates to grocery stores. This grants recipients greater control over their holiday meals and helps address dietary restrictions and allergies.
For families with children seeking assistance, registration forms are available at Churches, Schools, and Town Offices, with a submission deadline of November 25th.
For additional information or to contribute to this heartwarming cause, please contact Don Good at 780-853-2220. The Vermilion Lions Club is always looking for male and female members to join.
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