It’s a tall order but the Salvation Army is in need of 12,500 non-perishable food items to fill an estimated 500 Christmas hampers this season.
“Last year we did 500 hampers and the need is always growing,” said Andrea Voss, Gateway of Hope’s family services co-ordinator.
But registration is slower than usual, so she’s hoping to get the word out to those in need this holiday.
“People who are eligible for a food box are singles and couples without children, seniors, homeless people, those who are couch surfing and adult children still living with their parents,” she said.
People can register at the Gateway shelter on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Requirements include a piece of ID and verification of residency in Langley.
Voss encourages those who come to register to also have a meal that day at Gateway.
The type of non-perishable foods they are looking for are pancake mix, syrup, peanut butter, jam, scalloped potatoes, stuffing, pastas, instant oatmeals, cereals, baked beans, canned soups, macaroni and cheese, etc.
People are welcome to drop off food or cash anytime at the Gateway of Hope, located at 5787 Langley Bypass or call 604-514-7375.