Volunteers with the Angel Tree campaign worked to assemble a record number of gift packages for children in need, November 21, 2022. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Record-setting 3,571 children in Lethbridge area receive gifts from Angel Tree

Jan 16, 2023 | 2:21 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Thousands of children in Lethbridge and the surrounding area were able to enjoy a Merry Christmas thanks to Lethbridge Family Services (LFS).

The agency has released its report on the LFS Angel Tree Christmas Campaign for 2022.

In its 30th year, a record 3,571 children between the ages of 0-18 were registered to receive gift bundles, all of whom were able to get something under the tree.

According to the report, this was an increase of 297 gift bundles compared to the 2021 campaign, which had been the record at the time.

“Due to the current financial stress on our families, we anticipated increased numbers and readied ourselves early on. With incredible help from our community, we delivered gift bundles to every single child on our many lists,” reads the report from LFS.

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More than $180,000 was raised by 464 donors and a total of 473 volunteers workers a record 4,247 hours.

Local sewing, knitting, looming, crocheting, and crafting groups donated over 1,400 blankets, toques, mitts, and dolls.

LFS says each gift bundle has a monetary value of $65 to $85 and includes something on their wish list, something inspirational, something educational, and something warm or soft.

Among all of the gift requests they received, LFS says one of them came as a shock as a child requested a suitcase.

On December 20, 2022, a social worker informed LFS that a nine-year-old boy was suddenly being re-located into foster care. When this happens, the worker says children typically put their small belongings into a large plastic bag.

Angel Tree volunteers were able to put a variety of toys, hygiene products, and other items into the suitcase to help the child out.

READ MORE: High demand expected as Lethbridge Angel Tree campaign kicks off