Non-profits accepting applications in November for Christmas assistance programs
October 25, 2024 at 3:56 AM
Local non-profits who make the holiday season a little easier for Fort Erie families to put gifts under the Christmas tree will begin accepting applications on November 1.
Both branches of St. Vincent De Paul, the Crystal Ridge Dream Center (CRDC), and the Salvation Army have programs where they provide food and presents to needy households across town.
For the Salvation Army, they usually serve more than 200 families per year, which adds up to more than 500 children whose Christmas is made a bit brighter.
Community program co-ordinator Natalie Beres said people can contact the Salvation Army by phone to set up an in-person interview as part of the registration process.
Gift cards for food are provided by the Army and gifts come through donations made to the Fort Erie Kinsmen Club’s Gift of Love campaign, a longstanding tradition between the service club and the local non-profit.
Applicants don’t have to “prove anything” when it comes to income, but can note what their source of income is, said Beres.
She said “there’s always a great need” and expects this year to be busy, considering the Salvation Army’s food bank, held three days a week, has increased by about 40 per cent since last year. About 75 to 100 households are served each week as of late, she said.
A flyer has been circulating on social media, advertising how people can begin the registration process with each group.
The Salvation Army can be contacted at (905) 871-1592.
The CRDC can be reached by email at crdreamcenter@gmail.com.
And the branch of St. Vincent De Paul that serves Fort Erie proper can be contacted at (905) 394-0203, while the branch at St. George’s Catholic Church, which serves Ridgeway, Crystal Beach and Stevensville, can be reached at (905) 894-2853.
Applications are being taken for the entire month of November.
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About The Author
Kris Dubé
Kris is a veteran journalist who has worked in Niagara for close to 20 years. He is also a lifelong resident of Fort Erie, a place he plans to call home and raise his family for many more years.
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