The Chatham Goodfellows will mark a milestone as they kick off their 70th Christmas campaign next month.
The Chatham Goodfellows will mark a milestone as they kick off their 70th Christmas campaign next month.
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No Child Without a Christmas provides food, clothing and toys for families in need.
“To be able to stick around for 70 years, doing something that’s helped the community is an awesome achievement,” Tim Haskell, Goodfellows spokesperson, said Tuesday. “I’ve been around for about 47 of those years. It’s something that was needed (in Chatham-Kent) when I was a little kid.”
Thanks to cash donations of about $228,000 last year, the Goodfellows purchased food, toys, knitted items, plus boot and shoe certificates.
Many other donations were left at locations throughout the community as well.
On Nov. 1, the Goodfellows will accept applications at ChathamGoodfellows.ca for those who have applied in previous years.
All others can apply by phone at 519-354-1146 starting Nov. 4 from 9 am to 3 pm, from Monday to Friday.
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“If you’re new, we want you to call in so we can get all the proper information,” Haskell said.
Applications will close Nov. 29 to allow orders to be placed with suppliers. If needed, the Goodfellows can arrange to pick up donations.
Haskell said the high cost of living has made it difficult for people to make ends meet.
“The way the economy’s going, I’d imagine we should be up a little higher,” Haskell said of this year’s need. “We encourage people to use it. If you think you need it, give us a call and let’s get you on our list.”
To avoid duplication of donations, the Goodfellows are in contact with other charitable organizations and ensure that every applicant receives what they need. Items left over from the campaign are passed along to FreeHelpCK, Outreach for Hunger and local soup kitchens.
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“You can always count on Chatham-Kent to step up,” Haskell said. “For 70 years, they’ve been stepping up for us. It’s just incredible to see that happen every single year.”
The Porchlight campaign begins Dec. 2 at the Spirit and Life Centre, 184 Wellington St. W., with street sales taking place Dec. 13 and 14.
Toy packing runs Dec. 9-12 at the former Monsignor Uyen School, 255 Lark St., with delivery Dec 17.
Food packing and delivery takes place Dec. 18 out of the Spirit and Life Centre.
For more information, or to volunteer, visit ChathamGoodfellows.caemail [email protected]or search for the organization on social media.
Donations can be made by sending a check to PO Box 114, Chatham, ON, N7M 5K1, or by e-transfer at [email protected] to receive an automatic receipt.
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