The Surrey Christmas Bureau, established for 45 years, is facing unprecedented demand this holiday season.
This year, the charity has received a record 3,600 applications from families in need. Despite a decrease in donations, 2,400 families have been approved to receive hampers containing vouchers, groceries, and toys.
Karmin Dhindsa, the bureau’s program coordinator, expressed concern over the rising trend of demand. She highlighted the significant increase in need over the past years, noting a steady climb from 1,700 families to the current 2,400.
Dhindsa attributed this spike in demand to factors such as rising rents, inflation, and economic pressures on families, echoing challenges faced by many Canadian charities.
Acknowledging the difficulty in bridging the gap between increasing demand and dwindling donations, Dhindsa emphasized the urgent need for support. She anticipates even more families will require assistance in the coming year.
To sustain the bureau’s efforts, Dhindsa emphasized the necessity of monetary donations, particularly for the grocery hamper fund. Additionally, she highlighted the need for gifts tailored to teenagers, including gift cards, hygiene products, makeup items, and electronics like headphones and hair styling tools.
Emphasizing the importance of providing families with dignity during the holidays, Dhindsa stressed that poverty affects individuals from diverse backgrounds and economic circumstances. She noted the bureau’s efforts to address cultural and dietary restrictions when preparing hampers.
Those willing to contribute can donate online, visit the toy depot in Whalley, or drop off items at firehalls throughout the city.