Christmas can be a challenging time for some people and their families. To help local families make ends meet and to provide gifts so children have something to unwrap under the tree, Share Family and Community offers holiday hampers and its toy shop program. This program is intended to help families in need within the Tri-Cities.
TOY PROGRAM
Here's what you need to know to get a hamper or toys for your children.
Who is eligible
Parents or guardians of children 17 and under may apply to receive toys. You may be asked to provide legal documents indicating you have custody if you are not the parent. To qualify for the SHARE Family Services Toy program, you will be required to provide documentation to support that your household income is at or below the Low Income standard.
When to register
• Until Dec. 9, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Port Moody Pacific Grace MB/Chinese Church, rear downstairs, at 2622 St. Johns St., Port Moody (across the alley from the Share Food Bank).
• After Dec. 12, registration can be done at the Share food bank, 2615 Clarke Street, Port Moody between 10 a.m. and noon.
For more information call: 604-931-2451 or check www.sharesociety.ca.
What you need
At the time of registration, you must apply in person with current ID and the following:
• proof of address, e.g. recent rental agreement, utility bill, bank statement for all adults in the house.
• CareCards and/or immigration cards for all members of the family;
• info on income sources: e.g., cheque stub from MEIA, EI, WCB, work or bank statement for the household
FOOD HAMPERS
Christmas Food Hampers
You do not need to register for a Christmas food hamper if you are a current food bank client. If you have never been to a Share food bank or have not attended for more than six months, you will need to register. A Christmas food hamper will be available for you to pick up on your regular food bank day on Dec. 7 or 14 at your regular food bank location the following hours: noon to 2 p.m. in Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam; 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Port Moody. Also, come prepared to carry your hamper.
TINY BUNDLES
Tiny Bundles families (households where a woman is pregnant or there is a child under 12 months) will receive one Christmas hamper on either Dec. 7 or 14. Tiny Bundles families can come on both dates to get their special Tiny Bundle items only.
