Christmas Cheer Board has additional hampers to give

With the holidays right around the corner, the Christmas Cheer Board has announced they have close to 500 left over hampers.

The Cheer Board says when they looked at numbers back in November, they decided to order more than necessary out of an abundance of caution.

"With numbers projected to shatter last year's record applications, we ordered extra food to make sure we didn't run out this year," said Shawna Bell, executive director of thr Christmas Cheer Board. "Since then, our application numbers have slowed down and we find ourselves in a position of having extra food hampers in the days leading up to Christmas."

They are now asking other organizations across the city who have over-commited to supporting those in need this season, to reach out.

Anyone who hasn't already applied is encouraged to reach out at 204-989-5683. New applicants will need to head to the Cheer Board at 895 Century St. to receive their hampers.

Hours leading up to Christmas are Monday, Dec. 23 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesday, Dec. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The warehouse will be closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. It will reopen Dec. 27 and 28 between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for pickups only.

"When you have what you need, you build a bigger table. That's what we're all about," said Bell.

Anything leftover on Dec. 28 will make its way back into the community.