Poverty is a very real struggle for many Calgarians, with the rate of low income individuals in the city around 8%. This year, the international COVID-19 pandemic is impacting these family’s ability to have a comfortable and joyful Christmas since many have been out of work and are unable to financially support themselves and their families. The Magic of Christmas is a charity that supports these families every year.
About this Charity:
Since 1983, The Magic of Christmas has brought joy to the hearts and homes of Calgarians every Christmas. Based in Calgary and 100% volunteer based, they collect donations for those struggling through emotional, physical, and financial issues. The charity emphasizes that Christmas is about more than material goods and their top priority is to spread the festive spirit to those who most need it. Hundreds of Elves are sent out every Christmas Eve to deliver gifts, sing carols, and warm the hearts of many.
How to Get Involved:
There are many ways to support this charity every year:
- Donate – Donate items or request a donation box for your business between November and Christmas Eve. The charity puts together a Christmas Wish List every year including items for all ages, so you have an idea of what they accept. And all items must be new, unused, and unwrapped when dropped off at Santa’s workshop. You can find it on Amazon and have donations sent directly to their Workshop.
- Volunteer – With hundreds of volunteer positions available prior to, during, and following Christmas, there is an elf position for you regardless of your schedule, interests, and skills.
- Sponsor – As the charity and demand for the program increases, so does the need for resources and support. There are many different sponsorship opportunities available, including Gift-in-Kind donations and corporate sponsorships.
Why this Charity is Heartwarming:
Every Christmas Eve, volunteers dress up as Santa and his Elves, load up the Reindeer Buses (donated Calgary Transit buses) and deliver gifts to Calgarians who need it most. They warm the hearts of over 650 families and over 4,500 people in hospitals, care homes, and other institutions. The Magic of Christmas collects funding year-round and works with the City of Calgary social services and Calgary Police Service to make sure that no one is missed on Christmas Eve.
Join in on the fun, support your local Calgarians and neighbours this holiday season, and nominate a family or someone you love. We might not all get to spend time with our loved ones this year, but they will know you love them when gifts from Santa end up at their front door.
