Nobody in Boyle was afraid to step on the scale during the Santas Anonymous sack challenge on Dec. 2 at the former senior’s drop-in centre.
Members of the community streamed into the centre, carrying bags of food, toys and cash donations to support the organization as it prepares to serve families during the holiday season.
“Just knowing that we’re providing a Christmas for those who can’t enjoy it feels great,” said Santa’s Anonymous president Jackie Neil. “At some point we all need help. It’s just nice to help people.”
Food donations were weighed by volunteers while local RCMP officers handed out hot chocolate to warm up attendees.
Outside, a sleigh gave rides around the village while spreading word about the event and of course, Santa Claus attended the festivities to hear the children’s Christmas wishes.
“We wanted to make the collecting a fun family event,” Neil said. “There aren’t a lot of fun family events, so it’s nice to put something on for them to come and do.”
A trophy was given to Boyle Tire and Lube, whose contribution of 572 pounds was the heaviest of the afternoon.
“They said they wished they could have donated more,” said Santa’s Anonymous vice-president Heather Colgan. “We just said, ‘This is great.’”
Colgan said the contribution was made alongside several other generous donations from businesses, organizations and individuals from the community. There were more than 100 donations, totaling over 1,200 pounds of food given to Santas Anonymous.
“It comes as no surprise,” said Athabasca-Sturgeon-Redwater MLA Colin Piquette. “If anyone knows anything about Boyle, you know how generous the people are here.”
The contributions will be packed into hampers Santa’s Anonymous will distribute in the community on Dec. 19.
Neil said her vision for the event is to bring in more families and build an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome.
“We want to get more people involved,” she said. “And if someone does need help, they don’t have to hesitate to come and ask.”
