Mission Christmas Bureau volunteers handed out close to 700 food hampers and gifts to local families this year, but only reached about half of the organization’s fundraising goal.
This week, as bureau coordinator Phil Hope closes down the temporary office at the Junction Mall, he is thanking all the volunteers and donors for their help.
“We are so grateful,” he said.
In the week leading up to Christmas, Interwrap invited Hope to its Christmas luncheon and presented him with a $3,300 cheque. On Dec. 19, the bureau also received a $2,850 cheque from the Mission Chamber of Commerce.
The annual Christmas at the Clarke concert was also successful, noted Hope, but the event’s final donation results have not yet been tallied. Proceeds from the evening are split between the Christmas Bureau and the Women’s Resource Society of the Fraser Valley.
“We really appreciate what John Agnew (concert producer) does every year,” said Hope.
Fundraising started slow this year and despite donations from students, community organization, and individuals over the past couple of weeks, Hope estimates only 50 per cent of its $150,000 has been reached.
“Just because Christmas is over, we’re not done,” said Hope. “Further donations throughout the year are still appreciated.”
Donations can be brought to the Food Centre, 32646 Logan Ave.