The Chatham Goodfellows are getting into the holiday spirit as they gear up for the 68th annual “No Child Without A Christmas” campaign.
The organization will be holding its annual general meeting on November 3 to kick off the campaign, as volunteers begin to collect donations of toys for children and food for holiday meals.
“The cost of living has gotten out of control which makes it difficult for people to pay their rent and buy groceries for their family,” Chatham Goodfellows said in a news release. “Our goal is to provide a Christmas dinner and toys so that everyone can enjoy the holiday season without any worries.”
The organization will begin accepting applications online from those who have applied for support in previous years beginning on November 1. All others can apply from November 7 to December 2 by calling 519-354-1146.
Toy packing will take place on December 12-15 at the former Monsignor Uyen Catholic School at 255 Lark St. in Chatham.
The toys will then be delivered on December 19, followed by food packing and delivery on December 20.
While the COVID-19 pandemic has presented the Chatham Goodfellows with challenges over the last two years due to health restrictions, organizers were able to raise $215,000 in monetary donations last year to purchase toys and food for those in need.