Paris Community Christmas Hamper and Toy Drive: A Holiday Tradition of Giving

The Power of 100

Presented by 100 People Who Care Brant

This month’s focus: Paris Community Christmas Hampers

AT THE BEGINNING OF EVERY GIVING CYCLE, MEMBERS OF THE LOCAL GIVING CIRCLE 100 PEOPLE WHO CARE BRANT ARE INVITED TO NOMINATE A CHARITY OR NON-PROFIT TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THE COLLECTIVE DONATIONS FROM OUR GROUP. IN THIS NEW MONTHLY COLUMN, WE WILL SHINE SOME LIGHT ON THE WORK AND COMMUNITY EVENTS OFFERED BY NOMINEES WHO HAVE NOT YET BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF OUR DONATIONS. NOVEMBER’S FOCUS IS ON PARIS COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS HAMPERS

The spirit of giving is alive in Paris as the community rallies together to support the annual Christmas Hamper and Toy Drive. Hosted by local schools, community groups, businesses, and first responders, the drive gathers food and toys for County of Brant families in need Over 30 years ago, the very first hampers were put together in Marg Knill’s basement, with only a few recipients. Now, thanks to the efforts of Chair Shirley Simons and her dedicated team, the program has expanded tremendously, providing holiday joy to more than 150 families each year.

As the cost of living rises, the demand for hampers grows Last year, 156 families received these gifts of food and holiday cheer. This effort begins in early November and involves nine committee members and close to 100 volunteers Together, they ensure that every family registered with the program has a little extra to smile about on Christmas morning. The hampers include all the ingredients for a Christmas meal, extra pantry essentials, and gifts for children For those who want to do more, the program offers sponsorship opportunities. Last year, 18 generous sponsors came forward to adopt families, providing not only basic needs but also wish list items. Sponsors receive an application detailing each family’s preferences, enabling them to shop and prepare a customized gift hamper This personalized approach spreads joy while meeting specific needs, making the holidays brighter for everyone involved.

The logistics of the hamper drive are substantial. From gathering donations to sorting and packing, every aspect of the operation is handled with care and expertise by volunteers. Local sports teams, girl guides, students, and neighbors all pitch in. For those who want to get involved, volunteering is an option that many returning individuals look forward to each year with holiday music playing, a room full of volunteers wearing Christmas hats will be seen busily sorting, packing, and organizing donations with pride For others, donating is just as valuable. The Brant OPP and EMS will hold their “Fill a Vehicle” food drive on December 7-8 and December 14-15 at Sobeys, No Frills, and Foodland in St George and Burford.