It was going to be slim pickings under the Christmas tree for John’s young family this year.
He and his wife have been feeling the pressure of the rising costs of everything “but the air we breath.”
“While I won’t say it’s unbearable, it has been indeed harder and more stressful to keep up with the standard of living in B.C.,” said John, who’s been living in Richmond for the last five years.
But what really hurt was the thought of not being able to provide his kids ages six and 11, with much by way of presents on Christmas morning.
Thankfully, John was made aware of the Richmond Christmas Fund program through a friend and the media.
Now he’s grateful to say his “kids can properly celebrate” Christmas.
The family of four is one of many in the community who have received a helping hand from the Richmond Christmas Fund to celebrate this winter holiday.
The Richmond Christmas Fund program, organized and run by Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives (RCRG), helps low-income resident celebrate the holidays by providing grocery vouchers, toys, books and gift cards.
“The organization (RCRG) has definitely lifted the burden off our shoulders in terms of being able to provide more toys for our young children,” he said.
“It lets them have a better Christmas than just one or two toys during the holidays.”
People lined up as early as 4 a.m. to register for the Christmas Fund this year, according to John.
He said the need for help in the community showed from the amount of people lining up for help whether it be for groceries or toys.
“If the Christmas Fund wasn’t here, then I don’t know what other alternative we would have.”
