Tantramar Community Association’s Christmas Cheer initiative spreads holiday magic
It really is the most wonderful time of the year, as the Tantramar Community Association’s Christmas Cheer campaign returns for the season! This campaign involves collecting and distributing donations of grocery vouchers, clothing, toys, gift cards, and more. This initiative helps to provide resources for families and residents in need, and creates a little bit of Christmas magic. The goal of this program is to make sure each and every resident of Tantramar can make the month of December a special one.
With the aim of supporting vulnerable populations, Christmas Cheer prioritizes supporting children, seniors, and lower-income families. In 2024 alone, the Tantramar Community Association was able to donate toys and gift cards to 187 children living in the region. They also donated 41 fruit baskets to seniors, bringing smiles and fresh food to older adults in the community. One of the most impressive displays of kindness, however, was the distribution of approximately $36,460 in grocery gift cards to families in need, making sure that everyone has a full belly going into the new year.
The Tantramar Community Association kindly asks all toys that are donated for kids to be in new condition. This ensures not only that they receive toys that are in good condition,but that children can experience the joyful feeling of unboxing presents themselves on Christmas morning. As well, there will be an ongoing donation of children’s winter clothes! The Tantramar Community Association will be looking to collect hats, mittens, and gloves, so that every child will be able to get outdoors and play in the snow, or stay cozy and warm on the bus stop. These donations can be dropped off on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Sackville United Church, situated on the corner of Bridge Street and Main Street. The church will be open for collections on those days from the hours of 10 a.m.-12p.m., and 2:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.. Donations will be accepted until Dec. 12, to allow for all items to be sorted, assigned, and wrapped by Christmas Day. Monetary donations are handled by the Royal Bank in Sackville, but may also be donated online through the following link: https//christmascheersackville.ca/.
Throughout the rest of the year, the Tantramar Community Association continues its support of children and Tantramar community members. Other contributions the committee makes are donations to schools in the region, which help the schools to provide school supplies and proper nutrition for students, so that everyone has a chance to learn and grow. They also go above and beyond in sponsoring families year-round, assisting families and individuals in need of access to food, heating, and medical supplies.
As the holidays grow near, it is important to remember it is always okay to reach out for support. If you, or a loved one living in the Tantramar community would like to participate, and receive assistance from the Christmas Cheer program, you can support those in need by contacting the Tantramar Community Association at 536-8883, or 536-5556. The deadline to put names forward is Dec. 8, 2025. No one deserves to go hungry, or without a little bit of holiday cheer. Please consider donating, as every dollar or toy donated can help make someone’s holiday wishes come true.