Dear Editor,

On behalf of the Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley and all of our friends and neighbours who received the gift of a hamper or angel gift, a big thank you to all of you in the community who sponsored a family or angel, who gave a donation in monetary funds or who volunteered to make this event once again a success and make it so we could all have a great holiday season.

December 18 to 20 found countless volunteers coming together to help the Christmas Bureau put together 255 hampers along with gifts and add ons for 731 individuals. We had oranges, coffee, knitting, quilted stockings, toys, books, and the list goes on. We say thank you to all the individual volunteers, the students from Open Doors and their teacher, the Senior Silver Tip Hockey Club, church groups and seniors — our campaign was once again successful.

Never underestimate the time you gave to help others; it is this time that shows what a great community we come from and one I am proud to call my own.

Have a wonderful new year we will see you all in the fall. Look out for our AGM in April. We would love to have you attend.

Columbia Valley Christmas Bureau

Invermere