The Mission Christmas Bureau, operated by Mission Community Services (MCS), has over 700 families registered to receive hampers with more being registered daily.
“We are overwhelmed every year with how the community supports us,” says Tony Lapointe, MCS executive director. “Every year so many people give of their time and money to make sure everyone in Mission has a great Christmas.”
The Christmas Bureau needs $90,000 to operate yearly and has achieved just over half that amount to date.
The list of supporters for the Christmas Bureau continues to grow every year. Fire station one and three spent time collecting toys, food and money donations. The Christmas at the Clarke was another successful fundraising event for us. The event is coordinated by John Agnew every year with major sponsorships from Prospera Credit Union, Fraser Building Supplies and the Clarke Theatre, along with the many performers, door prize donors, volunteers and others who make this such a wonderful annual event.
Proceeds from the Christmas at the Clarke are divided between the Christmas Bureau and Women’s Resource Society of the Fraser Valley.
People need to know that we don’t get any government funding for this program. Donations of non-perishable food, unwrapped toys, and money are all gratefully appreciated. Any donation $10 or more is also tax deductible.
If you would like to donate to the Christmas Bureau, non-perishable food and toys can be dropped off at the food centre at 32646 Logan Ave. or at the Christmas Bureau at unit 308-32555 London Ave. in the Junction Mall. Donations can also be dropped off at fire station one and three and The Mission Record office on First Avenue. Cash donations can be dropped off or mailed to Mission Community Services at 33179 Second Ave.
“The Christmas Bureau is the community’s expression of compassion during this season,” reminds Tony Lapointe. “As a community, together we can help people, change lives, and build a community where everyone belongs.”
Phil Hope is the Christmas Bureau coordinator