Troy Shantz
Operation Christmas Tree is back, an event that helps Corunna-area families have a merry Christmas.
Organized by the Optimist Club of Moore, the holiday food and toy collection program is entering its 36th year.
The goal is to deliver holiday hampers to about 130 families containing toys, books, clothing, food and a food voucher, said program president Lorne Powell.
“I always kind of envision after Christmas kids going back to school and they’re talking about all the toys they got,” he said. “And I just can’t imagine some kid standing there with their mouth closed, not being able to say anything.
“That’s what drives me.”
Several area elementary schools are also pitching in by collecting canned goods.
This year’s event kicks off Nov. 16 with a Poor Boy Luncheon at the Legion Hall on Albert Street in Corunna, starting at 11:30 a.m.
Corunna OPP are scheduled to host a drive-through for donation drop-offs at the detachment office on Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Donations of non-perishable food items, cash or new toys are accepted at the OPP Emergency Services Building 392 Lyndoch St., weekdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., starting Nov. 21
Register to receive a hamper at the St. Vincent de Paul, 385 Lyndoch St. in Corunna, run Nov. 13-18 and Nov. 20-25, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Powell, who has been a part of the program for 16 years, said the recipients are grateful.
“You get some tears sometimes,” he said.