The Growth of Christmas Care by Peri Hayes
Involved since 2018, Richard Auckland has been the proud President of Elgin-St. Thomas Christmas Care since 2022. “The organization is run by our Board and Coordinators,” as he shares. “We divide the duties up between Food and Logistics, Toys and Administration -- with close to 100 volunteers involved in various aspects of the program.” Christmas Care is entering its 41st year in St. Thomas and area. “It all started with The Salvation Army wanting to provide a Christmas meal for families, and toys for children who were in need. Now, we serve residents of St. Thomas, Southwold and Central Elgin. We also assist organizations with extra food.” Approximately 1,500 hampers are prepared each year, with registration beginning early November. There has been a rise over time in those applying for assistance, as Richard reflects on the statistics: “Since 2020, we have seen an increase in those served by about 25%.” Richard proceeds to highlight, “In 2002, groceries cost about $33,000. In 2024, we spent almost $130,000 on groceries.” Meanwhile, in 2020, donations from corporations, grants, groups and individuals totalled over $130,000. Last year, almost $245,000 in donations were graciously accepted. “I am continually impressed with humanity,” Richard voices while expressing gratitude for the goodwill from local businesses and organizations. “In 2025, we will again be using the Memorial Arena Auditorium for our registration and administration. This area also acts as our warehouse for collecting food and assembling our hampers. The City provides this space to us, free of charge.
The last few years, we have been fortunate that Elgin Centre has served as our toy headquarters.” With Christmas Care elves working year-round, there are presently ways for those interested to contribute. Donations are welcome via cheque to P.O. Box 20016, St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4, or through the christmascarestthomas.com website. To ensure efficiency of their distribution line, Richard offers, “If people do want to give us products, we ask that you consider giving a case of beans or soup instead of a can.” Further, Richard and his team are encouraging donations by the end of November for their assembling process: “The earlier the better. Of course, people don’t typically start thinking about Christmas until the weather turns cold or there is snow in the air! We’re trying to change people’s mindset. This year, volunteers will be at the Seniors’ Picnic and other area events.” As Richard concludes, “A huge thank you to the community, because we are indebted for the support we receive. I’d especially like to recognize Al Mintz and his wife, Marilyn, who have been involved with our program since its inception in 1980.”
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025 • Page 11
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