Santa Claus has enlisted the Lethbridge Police Service to help support the Christmas Hope Campaign with the 5th Annual Charity Check Stop.
From noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday officers and staff will be collecting toys, money and non-perishable food items at Park Place Mallâs west parking lot, located by the old Sears. Acting Sergeant Don Realini says last year was the first year the check stop was held in this location and they saw a significant increase in donations.
“Weâre optimistic that weâll have an even better turnout this year by hosting the event after Black Friday â when shoppers can, hopefully, find some great deals for both themselves and our local families in need,” Realini says.
Christmas Hope helps to coordinate donations to the Interfaith Food Bank, the Lethbridge Food Bank, Lethbridge Family Services Angel Tree, MyCityCare Shop of Wonders, and the Salvation Army’s Toys for Tots. Lieutenant Zach Marshall with the Salvation Army says events such as the LPS Charity Check Stop or any other fundraising event have a direct impact on some of the activities the organizations that are part of Christmas Hope can do.
“Speaking from the Salvation Army, we get a huge bump of toys from the Charity Check Stop and money as well, so these types of activities are really important. A lot of our agencies rely solely on donations so we are really relying on the generosity of our community.”
Marshall adds it is also an event those who take part enjoy because it is fun but also makes a positive impact by giving back and brightening someone else’s Christmas.
