From: Patricia Hansell <patriciadhansell@gmail.com>

Well we feel like the holiday has officially begun! Our garage is now empty (aside from a huge stack of empty produce boxes), but our heart are full, as are the Sidney Lion’s Food Bank, Salvation Army, and Tseycum First Nation’s trucks!

The Salvation Army is preparing for a record year with over 3000 families expected to request hampers! The Sidney Lion’s Food Bank has received 458 requests for hampers, in addition to the 1100-1200 people they serve each month!

Thanks to each and everyone of you, 60 families will be enjoying a hearty, healthy, and delicious meal this holiday. But almost just as important, these families will get the sense a your care and compassion through all of the special touches in this year’s hampers. From handmade cards by Lisa (and signed by all of you), to homemade cookies and beautiful swags. These thoughtful additions are what really makes the hampers more than a meal, but a special gift. And as Pat and his crew from the Salvation Army told us, these special touches really do get noticed. In fact, they hand deliver our hampers so as not to make anyone jealous 🙂

We are so thankful to be surrounded by such an incredible community. You are what makes this initiative such a success. We just love how everyone continues to come up with new ideas and opportunities. In addition to all of your personal support, we had a few businesses chip in:

• Thanks to David for approaching Save-On Esquimalt who donated five $25 gift cards
• Amber secured an amazing deal on turkeys from Save-On in Sidney
• Michell’s farm donated a huge box of cabbage and carrots, thanks to Robert and Barb
• Fickle Fig donated bread for the hampers and cookies for the helpers
• Woodwynn farms gave us a great deal on their eggs

And a HUGE thanks to Jason & Candace who not only set up the online form, but also did the HUGE shop (thanks to your donations of nearly $1800!), and repacked all of the bulk produce. Really I would love to thank you all individually, as this really doesn’t happen without you. And it was so great to see all of the kids involved this year!

Not only have you filled our hearts with gratitude, and helped us to pass on the importance of caring for our community to the next generation, but you have really reminded us of how fortunate we all are to have a happy and healthy family, a warm home to share with you all, and full bellies at the end of the day.

We truly hope that your holiday is filled with the company of loved ones and special moments together, meals shared, and peace in your hearts.

With love, Patrica, Aaron & Emma

For more pictures go to our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/2170161363210722/

If you missed our party and still want to get involved, the Victoria edition of the hamper party takes place next Sunday, December 17th from 1-4 at St. Mary’s church (1701 Elgin Rd).For more info check out: https://christmashamperparty.wordpress.com