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Christmas Bureau campaign wraps it up

The annual campaign was a success and many Sooke people volunteered

The 2011 Campaign, which wrapped up officially on December 30, saw a 25 per cent increase in the number of requests from clients — a reflection of the challenging times faced by many of our neighbours. Approximately 500 hampers were provided for distribution on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

“The community of Sooke and region responded to the call for assistance and support once again, in so many varied ways over the critical weeks of the initiative,” stated spokesperson David Bennett.

He said the cash donations totalled approximately $23,000 (a $5,000 increase over the 2010 campaign). The cash donations came from store cash boxes, SFRS campaign stations, the Spirit Festival Parade, and service clubs, to name a few. All assisted in contributing to the costs of supporting the Christmas Bureau’s needs. The level of non-perishable food items donated also went a long way to supplement the bulk purchases required by the bureau.

Bennett commented on the gratifying number of volunteers of all ages who gave unselfishly over the three days of sorting, packing and issuing the hampers.

The Sooke Fire Rescue Service members should be acknowledged for their multiple storefront sessions, the Santa Run, and the first-ever Drive Through at the Firehall. The East Sooke and Otter Point Fire Departments also contributed to the overall success of the Santa Run.