For the first time in several years, the Eagle Valley Community Support Society, the organization that manages the hamper campaign for Sicamous, Malakwa, Swansea Point and Area E rural homes, has serious concerns about their ability to provide to all who may be in need.
Sicamous and Malakwa have seen a large increase in low-income families, couples, singles and seniors, as those challenged with the high cost and low availability of rentals in Salmon Arm, Vernon, Kelowna, Penticton and the Lower Mainland are making their way here and renting anything they can find.
EVCSS is asking all who can help in any way to be aware of the events and opportunities to donate.
The list below are some of the ways to people can help.
For those in need of Christmas food support, applications are available at the Eagle Valley Resource Centres in Sicamous and Malakwa. EVCSS appreciates having the completed applications returned to each centre as early as possible to help with planning and purchasing. Applications received after Dec. 13 may not include all items. Pick up of hampers is done by appointment, and the society can also deliver to those not able to pick them up. Call 250-836-3440 for more info.
Gift shops: For those in need of gifts, the Sicamous and Malakwa centres have their gift shops set up and they will be open during regular centre hours. Phone ahead and book a time to come in, as they are often busy. Any family in need can shop for gifts even if you are not applying for a food hamper.
Monetary, food and gift donations can be made directly by dropping in to either Sicamous or Malakwa Resource Centre and Food Bank locations, or donations may be mailed to the Eagle Valley Community Support Society, Box 777, Sicamous, V0E 2V0. The Sicamous centre is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is located at 1214 Shuswap Ave. The Malakwa centre is open Tuesday and Thursday, from noon to 3 p.m., and is located in the Malakwa Learning Centre. Tax receipts for monetary donations are available for those who need them.
Pre-bagged food donations at Askew’s: These bags range in price from $10 to $25 and contain items needed specifically for the hampers.
Bargain Shop Gift Campaign: When you are shopping at the Bargain Shop, you can purchase a toy and put it in their gift bin.
SASCU Angel Tree: Pick up a tag from the tree at the Sicamous SASCU branch, return the gift and tag to the tree for pickup by the elves.
Sicamous Lion’s Club Food Bank Bingo: Wednesday, Dec. 6, upstairs at the Rec Centre. Doors open 5 p.m.
Eagles Toque Toss: Dec. 15 at the Eagles hockey game. Bring toques, mitts, socks and/or hats for all ages for the Christmas Hamper Campaign.
CP Holiday Train: Don’t miss the beautiful holiday train on Thursday, Dec.14. Due to arrive at Silver Sands siding at approximately 5:15 pm. Bring a food item for the campaign and enjoy the stage show. Lions Chuckwagon will be on site. Look for posters with more information about the entertainment. See you there.
Submitted by the Eagle Valley Community Support Society.