Worried you won't be able to afford a gift for your child this Christmas?
Thanks to support from the community, the SOS Caring for Kids at Christmas Program can help, according to a news release from the Society of Organized Services (SOS).
The program is open to low-income residents of District 69 and ensures every local child and youth gets a special gift to unwrap Christmas morning and that adults can enjoy a meaningful meal, with dignity.
Registration for the program runs Nov. 16-Dec. 9 at the SOS Child, Youth and Family Centre at 245 West Hirst Ave. in Parksville. Drop by between 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Evening Registration is available by appointment for individuals who work during the day.
For people who can't make it to Parksville, registration will also take place in Qualicum Beach at the SOS Child, Youth and Family Centre at Qualicum Commons (the former Qualicum Beach Elementary School) on Thursday, Nov. 19, Nov. 26 or Dec. 3 between 2-4 p.m.
If you live North of Qualicum Beach, you can register at the Kiwanis Lighthouse Community Cupboard in Bowser, at the Wildwood Church, on Wednesday, Nov. 18 between 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. It is located at 113 McColl Rd.
To register for the program, each adult must bring photo ID and proof of residency, as well as Care Cards for minor children.
Toy and grocery store gift card distribution will take place at SOS in Parksville from
Dec. 15-22.
For more information, or to donate to the program, call SOS at 250-248-2093 ext. 229 or visit the website, www.sosd69.com.
— NEWS Staff/SOS news release