On Monday morning (Dec. 18), more than 20 volunteers were finalizing the assembly of the last hampers for this year鈥檚 Comox Valley Sharing the Christmas Spirit Hamper Program.

Among the volunteers was Ken Jones, supervisor of this year鈥檚 operation, who takes pride in the turnout of this year鈥檚 edition.

鈥淭hings are going well! I have a fantastic crew, some of whom have been in the program for over 25 years,鈥� said Jones. 鈥淲e are assembling 543 hampers this year, and we are just finalizing the last 30.鈥�

Jones explained that each hamper contains about 25 items that can sustain a family for a few days. Ranging from essential household supplies like toothbrushes and toilet paper to a variety of fresh produce and food items, each hamper is assembled to ensure that every child receives a gift, with extra consideration given to single mothers.

This year, hampers will be distributed on Dec. 22.

鈥淲e鈥檙e going to have about 100 volunteers coming in,鈥� Jones said. 鈥淲e have people from the base, including about 20 to 30 cadets. We even have people coming all the way from Qualicum to help out.鈥�

Jones highlighted the vital role that schools and local donors played in the initiative.

鈥淚 have to thank the schools because they鈥檙e making up half of the hampers that we distribute,鈥� added Jones. 鈥淚t鈥檚 unbelievable the amount of generosity in the Valley. Everyone is so helpful.鈥�

Jones also extended his appreciation to the sponsors who made the program possible, including Royal LePage, Bob and Bill at the Eagle, and the team at Comox Valley Dodge for donating the space for the cause.

RELATED: Comox Valley鈥檚 Sharing the Christmas Spirit Hamper Program in full gear

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