Applications and donations are now being accepted for Deltassist’s Christmas programs. This year they will have a different look due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Deltassist’s Toy Depot and Christmas food hampers have been valuable programs for families in need during the holiday season for many years. Due to COVID both of these Christmas programs have been revised to keep everyone safe while still supporting families in need in Delta.
The change this year is Deltassist will only be accepting monetary and gift card donations to fulfill both programs. All applications to receive help at Christmas will be done by phone and clients will be given a scheduled appointment where they will pick up their gift card package.
“We realized early on we needed to do something different this year,” explained Deltassist Community Services Coordinator Kirsti Kober who oversees both programs. “We work in partnership with the service clubs of Delta in the hamper program and a decision was made together to move away for the delivered hampers to gift cards this year.”
“For years the service clubs of Delta would put the Christmas hampers together. Their volunteers would go out and pick up the food from various locations in Delta. That just can’t happen. We put together over 550 hampers last year. Just trying spacing everyone out, it’s just not possible to run it the same.”
“And for years annual Toy Depot has been our organizations Christmas highlight. Parents would come and pick out gifts for their children that they would like. With gift cards, parents can still pick out what they want which is the same idea the Toy Depot has been.”
Kober is well aware the pandemic could result in more applicants than previous years. That’s why Deltassist is counting on organizations and donors to step up like they usually do, just in a different way.
“We’re reaching out to the business and community members that usually help us with sponsored hampers, angel trees and drop boxes. It’s having those people still wanting to be part of our programs,” she added.
The Delta Chamber of Commerce has taken lead with its annual 68th Hats Off Gala Excellence slated for Nov. 19 that will be a watch party this year. Instead of purchasing tickets, businesses are being encouraged to register for the event and donate to Deltassist’s holiday programs.
Applicants can now call Deltassist’s Ladner (604-946-9526) or North Delta (604-594-3455) offices where they will leave their name and number then expect a call back for intake during regular weekday office hours (9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.). A verified application will include proof of Delta residency, income of each adult in the household and care cards for each child.
Further information including making donations can be found by visiting www.deltassist.com.
