The Arborg & District Christmas Cheer Board is preparing for another busy holiday season as hamper requests continue to come in and volunteers gear up for packing and delivery week.
Volunteers with the Arborg & District Christmas Cheer Board, left to right, Morgan Stobert, Tammy Ciemny, Courtney Barkman, Noreen Barkman and Evanie Palardy, gather as they prepare for another busy season of sorting, packing and delivering holiday hampers for local families
As of late November, the Cheer Board has received 30 hamper requests — a number organizers say is on pace with previous years. Requests typically rise sharply in December.
“Requests usually start to increase in December,” the committee said. “Since our current members have been involved, there have been rising needs each year. The number of hampers and the number of gifts we provide have steadily increased with changes in the economy.”
Anyone needing assistance can request a hamper by contacting Courtney at 204-671-0559. The deadline to apply is Dec. 15.
The Cheer Board supports a wide range of households, including families, seniors, newcomers and single-parent homes. Hamper sizes vary from small to extra-large, depending on household size and number of children. Each package includes everything needed for a turkey dinner, breakfast items, pantry staples, and fresh produce when available. Wrapped gifts are provided for all children aged 17 and under.
Food inflation continues to pose challenges. “Food prices have increased, so we try to include as much food as possible to help families at this time of year,” organizers said.
While all donations are welcomed, the Cheer Board continues to see strong need for teen gifts, winter gear and staple foods. Non-perishable items and new toys can be dropped off at participating local businesses throughout Arborg.
Monetary donations can be sent by e-transfer to ADcheerboard@gmail.com, mailed to Box 185, Arborg, MB R0C 0A0, or deposited at the Arborg branches of Access Credit Union or CIBC. These funds help purchase basic hamper items and allow the committee to add extras when possible.
Donation boxes will be collected on Dec. 19, with hamper packing taking place Dec. 20 and 21. Working in a small space, five to 10 volunteers typically complete packing in about five to six hours, with perishables added the morning before delivery.
Hampers will be available for pickup or delivery on Dec. 22, with organizers expecting to distribute around 105 hampers, though the total varies each year. The local volunteer fire department assists by carrying hampers for pickup families and helping load drivers’ vehicles.
Planning begins as early as September each year, when the committee secures a site location, organizes timelines and reconnects with long-time supporters.
“We’re happy to provide this service for anyone who needs a hamper,” the committee said. “You never know who might be in need. People can request a hamper for themselves or on someone’s behalf.”
The Cheer Board is run by a volunteer committee of five, plus one dedicated helper who sorts toys, purchases needed gifts and handles all the wrapping. Additional volunteers step in for packing and deliveries, and more help is always welcome.
Many local businesses, churches and organizations contribute financially or run toy and food drives. The cost of each hamper ranges from just over $100 for the smallest to about $200 for the largest, not including donated food and gifts.
Families receiving hampers often express heartfelt gratitude. “People have told us how much these hampers helped them have a happier holiday season,” the committee said. “We’ve had people tearfully thank us, and we’ve seen eyes light up.”
As the holidays approach, the Cheer Board hopes residents will continue to give generously.
“All donations go directly to community members to help make the holiday season a little easier and more joyful,” organizers said. “We appreciate your support.”
