Santa’s Anonymous Banff & Lake Louise is back for another year of giving back to individuals and families in those communities that could use a little help to make the holidays special.

I spoke with Alison Milroy and Margarette Moar Bell about the need this year, why they’ve both been long-time volunteers with the campaign, and the annual Santa’s Anonymous Auction & Dance this Saturday, December 7th, from 6 – 11 PM at the Banff Legion.

Click here for more details on ways to support this important campaign.  The organizers also wanted to share some additional information:

Who we are:

Santa’s Anonymous is a volunteer, community-based initiative dedicated to the relief of Banff and Lake Louise community members in financial need during the holiday season.  It has been supported by residents, businesses and community organizations in Banff and Lake Louise since 1984.  The communities’ desire to give and care for those in need is truly heart warming.

 

New this Year:

Santa’s Anonymous is committed to distributing grocery store gift cards to all applicants in the 2019 season, but due to the lack of a volunteer base, we reluctantly will not be organizing the Giving Trees this year. In 2020, the Santa’s Anonymous Committee will review the Giving Tree Initiative.

Our application deadline was November 30th and we have close to a 20% increase in those in need over 2018. In 2019, Santa’s Anonymous will provide assistance to more Banff and Lake Louise community members than in any other year.

 

Why Santa’s Anonymous is important:

 Our communities are not immune to financial challenges with food security, health costs and housing. Food costs rise year after year which is costly for all, but devastating for vulnerable groups: families, seniors on fixed incomes and individuals with health challenges all struggle with rising costs. There is an identified need in our communities and often it is amplified during the holiday season when financial stress is exacerbated. For the past 35 years, it is the generous and caring support of Banff and Lake Louise community members that has provided this much needed relief through the holiday season.

 

Where to donate:

Financial donations are being accepted at Banff Town Hall Front Desk.  Cash, debit and certified cheques (to Santa’s Anonymous) are accepted and charitable receipts will be issued.

We appreciate all businesses, groups and individuals that encourage fundraising at holiday staff parties (50/50s, raffles, etc.).

The Santa’s Anonymous Auction and Dance is on Saturday, December 7th from 6 pm – 11pm. at the Banff Legion. Come on down and dance to live music featuring Shane and friends.  There will be affordable food and beverages available, a silent auction, loads of fun and families are welcome!

If you would like to make an auction donation please contact us at SAAuction@telus.net/403-678-8403.

Filed under: Banff, Santa's Anonymous