The 2025 Christmas Care Campaign launched on Monday (Nov. 3 ) with a ceremony at Memorial Arena.
This year marks the 46th edition of the festive food hamper and toy drive. Registration is now underway and runs until Dec. 9.
The food hamper is full of items to make a complete Christmas dinner, additionally there are toys and gifts for the children, along with hats, mitts, and scarves.
President Richard Auckland noted Christmas Care began with Vic Greenwood and the Salvation Army in 1980.
The program depends on an army of dedicated volunteers and support from local community groups like the St. Thomas Police Service, the St. Thomas Fire Department, Lions, Kinsmen and Rotary clubs, and many others, praised St.Thomas Deputy Police Chief Steve Bogart.
Speaking on behalf of the St. Thomas Gaming Association and their partners Jackpot Time Gaming, Sean Ross stressed the importance of giving back to the community.
Non-perishable food and financial donations along with toys can be dropped off at Memorial Arena.
Auckland paid special tribute to volunteer Al Mintz who has been with Christmas Care since its launch.
Mintz observed, “This city is one of the best cities for support, not only for us, but everybody. The support that we get from this community is great. From the police to EMS and firemen and all the different organizations. Just thank you.”
Here is what you need to know about registration:
What You Need to Bring: ID, proof of current address, proof of current income.
Only ONE member per family is required to register in person, please bring identification for all family members to be registered.
Where to Bring It: Memorial Arena at 80 Wilson Ave, St. Thomas.
When: Weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Dec. 9.
Written by Ian McCallum
