With the election wrapped up and November coming to a close - not to mention the flurries of snow this last week - it's safe to say that the holiday season is nearly here.
For the Burnaby Christmas Bureau, which provides toys and food for low-income families in the city, the next few weeks will be busy ones.
"It's going well," says executive director Stephen D'Souza. "It's busy, for sure."
He says that so far they're seeing a higher turnout of clients, though they won't be able to say until registrations wraps up Dec. 1 whether that's a sign of a true increase or simply people coming out earlier than normal to ensure they're registered.
"Last year, we had to cut it off right at Dec. 1 so it's possible this year people know they have to get here early and get registered," he said.
And though it's busy, he says staff and volunteers are having a good time.
"It's a tricky combination of stress and satisfaction in being able to help - we need to watch our funds and the toys that are coming in, but knowing that everyone is getting what they need adds so much more to the holiday season.
"It gives a real new meaning to the Christmas season, to feel part of a massive community-wide effort," he said.
In all, they've raised about $75,000 towards their goal of $190,000. They are also still in need of toy donations for their toy room, located in the second level in Metropolis at Metrotown, and for sponsors to step forward to be matched with local families.
This week, the organization will host its Fill A Stocking, Fulfill a Wish dinner event and a number of events around the city are either starting now or gearing up to begin soon.
SAY CHEESE WITH SANTA CLAUS
There was something big going on in Burnaby on Nov. 19 - and not just the civic election.
The Big Man in Red arrived at Metropolis at Metrotown, where he'll be visiting with children and posing for photos until Christmas Eve.
The annual Santa program, which kicked off on Saturday, is one of the main fundraising events for the Burnaby Christmas Bureau - all photos are by donation, and all donations go right to the bureau.
"The Santa photo is a Christmas tradition that means so much to everyone involved - it's fantastic for the families who come, Santa is great, that Christmas feeling permeates the mall," says D'Souza.
"It's a massive contribution for us," he said.
Artie Chumpol with Metropolis at Metrotown notes that between 14,000 and 16,000 participants come to the Santa photos each year, resulting in about $30,000 raised each year.
"Last year was our most successful season and we were able to raise $37,000, all of which goes to the Burnaby Christmas Bureau," she said.
She said that the program has become an annual tradition for many families who return each year to "meet the man of the season and create lasting memories."
Additionally, it allows them to help out with a local organization.
"We want to support (the bureau) and the important work they do in the community," she said.
Santa will be holding court in his castle Mondays to Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 2 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. On Christmas Eve, photos end at 5 p.m.
FUNDRAISER SET
For years, the Burnaby Village Museum has dedicated the first night of its Heritage Christmas to the bureau, with all gate admissions going towards the organization's annual fundraising campaign.
But with the museum celebrating its 40th anniversary with free admissions all year long, a new plan was hatched to allow the giving to continue.
"This year, on Dec. 15, from 4 to 8 p.m, instead of the gate (admissions), the carousel proceeds will be going to the Christmas Bureau," said bureau executive director Stephen D'Souza.
"This is the first night that they are open in the evening (for Heritage Christmas) just like every year," he said. "There's going to be lots of fun things, it's going to be a very special night."
As well, the regular donation boxes for the bureau will be at the Village Museum throughout the season.
He says they're hoping the carousel proceeds will be a significant contribution to their fundraising efforts.
"Once you've ridden it, you know - once is never enough. You have to ride it again," he says with a laugh. "So maybe some people will ride a few times."
According to a report from the parks department, the gate revenue in past years equaled a donation of $800 to $1,000 and the carousel plan is expected to generate about the same.
D'Souza says the night is a prime opportunity to create a fun family tradition while also helping out a local organization and fellow families.
"We really want to see people enjoying themselves, and celebrating the season that's what it's all about," he said.
HELPING OUT
There are a number of other ways to help the bureau this year, including:
- Financial donations: donate online at the bureau's website at www.burnaby communityconnections.com; send a cheque to 204-2101 Holdom Ave., Burnaby, B.C., V5B 0A4; donate by credit card by phone at 604-299-5778; drop off a cash or cheque donation at the bureau's new temporary location at Metropolis at Metrotown, on the upper level near Winners, in Unit E8.
- Participate in the Angel Wall program: this program is a toy drive program held by schools, community groups or local businesses. The bureau provides decorative angel themed cards with the gender and age of a child written on each one, as well as posters that can be used to encourage participation. Individual participants then choose an angel, purchase a toy and bring the gift back to the organization for drop-off at the bureau's toy room.
- Sponsor a family: the Burnaby Christmas Bureau matches families with a group that provides them with a food hamper and gifts.
For more, including information about registration (running until Dec. 1) see www. burnabycommunityconnections.com.
