Alberni Community and Women’s Services Society hosted their Christmas Party on Wednesday, where more than 100 visitors received Secret Santa gifts.
Donators could choose to “adopt” a wish for Christmas and donate items that people wished for, either through the ACAWS Facebook page or at the office.
“These are people who usually use the drop-in,” said Stacie Johnston, the drop-in coordinator. The drop-in resource centre at ACAWS offers support services, but also has a television and computer access for anyone who needs a place to get out of the cold. “Every year we try to get more adults adopted with Secret Santas,” she said. “Because they’re the ones who usually don’t get anything at Christmas.”
Johnston says they encourage people to ask for what they want, rather than what they need. Some people will ask for gifts like socks, shoes or work clothes.
Visitors opened boxes filled with chocolates, clothes, baking supplies and bath products.
“That’s really the magic of Christmas for me,” said Johnston.
elena.rardon@albernivalleynews.com
facebook.com/albernivalleynews