Santa’s Anonymous has recruited “elves” throughout Alberta to offer holiday cheer to Jasper residents still displaced by the wildfire.
Along with the usual holiday programming in Jasper, elves will be organizing festive events in communities where residents have relocated, specifically Hinton, Edmonton, Calgary and the Bow Valley.
“Basically, the idea is to make sure that no one is missed and that we still remain a community, even though we are displaced,” said Julie Des Becquets, Santa’s Anonymous program co-ordinator. “It’s not all about also receiving gifts. It’s also about togetherness.”
Santa’s Anonymous is an annual program organized by the Jasper Community Team Society to help spread the joys of the holiday season by “sharing and giving by any means possible to allow those who would typically go without to receive a needed gift,” according to Des Becquets.
For the communities with displaced residents, Santa’s Anonymous will be offering two events throughout December. More details will be available in the coming days.
Gift requests are available for people who are displaced. Residents can apply for a gift through Community Outreach Services at 780-852-2100 or during regular office hours. The deadline to apply is Dec. 11.
“As a recipient of Santa’s Anonymous, if you would typically go without, that would be for anybody under the age of 12,” Des Becquets said.
People can write down their requests on paper mitten cards at Andromeda Coffee, the Jasper Municipal Library or the Jasper Activity Centre. Anyone can take one of the mittens and shop for the item, leaving it unwrapped in the drop-off boxes.
Residents also have the option of getting a free food hamper, which will offered by the society and the Jasper Food Bank. There is a suggested donation of $25 per person. Food hampers are available in-community only.
The food hamper sign-up is available online. The pick-up will be at the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum on Dec. 16 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Holiday events to keep a look-out for include the Santa Train, a shopping bus on Nov. 29, Skate with Santa, Photos with Santa and various musical performances, with some dates to be announced.
This year, the Canadian Red Cross is funding Santa’s Anonymous, although items such as gift certificates for adults are being funded by external sources. Those wishing to donate to Santa’s Anonymous can do so online.
Displaced residents can follow Santa’s Anonymous on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
