The Society of Organized Services is readying for the 53rd year of their Christmas giving program for children and families in the Oceanside region. (submitted/Lissa Alexander)

By Alex Rawnsley

HOLIDAY GIVING

SOS gears up for 53rd year of making Christmas brighter for Oceanside families

Nov 22, 2020 | 7:52 AM

NANAIMO — A holiday staple in Oceanside is preparing for a busier than normal year.

The Society for Organized Services Caring for Community at Christmas Program provides low-income families a chance to shop for Christmas for toys and gifts to ensure every child in School District 69 has a gift under the tree on Christmas morning.

Susanna Newton, SOS executive director, said they’re expecting to hand out even more in their 53rd year of operation.

“Last year our numbers went up and this year obviously because of the pandemic, we’re anticipating even greater need. Last year we had over 1,400 children and youth who received gifts from our toy shops and 1,300 adults received grocery store gift cards.”

Newton said the year has been hard on everyone and they’re looking to the holiday season as a chance to recharge and focus on something positive.

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They’re aiming to raise $125,000 which is a slight increase from their goal in 2019, which they met.

“Being able to give small gifts to our children or have a small meal as a family together, that’s what we’re about, supporting individual family units.”

Both registration and making an appointment to shop the collection of gifts can be done by phoning SOS at 250 248 2093.

Donations to the program can be made through their website.

alex.rawnsley@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @alexrawnsley