Ponoka Secondary Campus (PSC) 43rd Annual Santa's Anonymous Program is celebrating another year of donations and community involvement.
The campaign, which ran from Nov. 12 to Dec. 9, brought together students, staff, and the Ponoka community to support local families in need this holiday season.
Approximately 150 food hampers and 75 family gift hampers were assembled and are nearly ready to be delivered.
One of the highlights of the campaign was the 29th Annual Santa Showdown held Dec. 11 at the Ponoka Arena Complex. The event featured a spirited hockey game between PSC Grade 12 students and staff, drawing a lively crowd of supporters. Admission fees, along with food, toys, and monetary donations collected during the event went towards the cause.
The Stuff a Bus Campaign and Ponoka Toy Drive/Fill-A-Sleigh-Day also contributed to the success of the initiative.
“The community is always generous with this event. PSC extended heartfelt thanks to the merchants and community members who contributed to making it a successful toy drive,” said Cody Baird, PSC Principal. "Each Christmas season, the support from our small community reminds us of what is possible when we come together.”
A Classroom Food Drive encouraged students to donate canned goods and spare change.
"The Santa’s Anonymous Program embodies the heart of our community. This year is a testament to the generosity and compassion of Ponoka residents and our incredible students,” added Baird. “This event is very important each year, especially as we see rising costs in everything from utilities to groceries.”
PSC issued a Corporate Challenge again this year, which inspired others to join the effort, resulting in an outpouring of donations.
Online contributions were also accepted through CanadaHelps.
Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon.
Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@centralalbertaonline.com.
CentralAlbertaOnline encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the CentralAlbertaOnline app.