The Steinbach Community Christmas initiative has officially reached its budgeted goal of 1,425 registered families for the upcoming holiday season. While registration will continue until November 30th, families who register after the cap is hit will now be placed on a waiting list.
“We’ve officially moved all of our online registrations to a waiting list,” said Carolyn Peters, co-chair of the committee. “We’ve purchased food for 1,425 families, and that's the number we’re at for the year. If any families cancel or we find duplicates when we go through the list, we’ll open up those spots. But for now, it’s a waiting list.”
The community’s overwhelming support in the form of donations and volunteers has been crucial to this annual project.
“Volunteers always come through, every year,” said Roger Blatz, co-chair of the committee. “We’ve already filled all of our delivery driver spots and volunteer positions. We have an amazing group of people, from families to businesses to sports teams, all stepping up.”
Even though the registration cap has been reached, the committee is still looking for ways to raise more funds and gather additional support. The holiday season is about giving, and the Steinbach Community Christmas committee has created opportunities for individuals and businesses to make a difference.
Toys Days 2024: A Chance to Give Back
One of the key fundraising events this year is Toys Days 2024, presented by Penfor Construction. It will take place on December 3rd and 4th at Canadian Tire in Steinbach. The public is encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys to donate, which will be included in the Christmas hampers.
“We need lots of donations—monetary and toys,” Blatz said. “We’ve already ordered a lot of food, but every year, we need the community to step up with financial support. People can donate online or stop by Southeast Helping Hands.”
How to Help: Donations and Fundraising
Monetary donations are always appreciated and can be made in several ways. You can donate online at Steinbach Community Christmas’s website or drop off donations at Southeast Helping Hands, located at 525 Main St. “There’s a lock box on the door for checks, cash, or other donations,” Blatz explained. “You can even host a fundraiser at work or within your family to help.”
Peters highlighted the different ways businesses and individuals can get involved. “We’ve had businesses choose not to exchange gifts this year but to donate toys for Toys Days or money to cover food costs. Family gatherings are another great opportunity for challenges—encourage your family to donate instead of buying gifts,” she said.
A Strong Community Effort
Despite the financial challenges and increasing demand, Peters and Blatz remain confident. “We’re going to have enough money, just like always,” Peters said. “The community always comes together. We have enough volunteers and donations to make this happen, and we’re so grateful to everyone who gets involved.”
Blatz added, “We will say that we are going to, in faith, have enough money again, like always.”
-With files from Adi Loewen.