Hamper elves busy at work

At 9 am, on Friday, December 13, over 40 volunteers with the Whitecourt Christmas Hamper took over the main room at the Family Worship Center to create hampers for area families. The room was overflowing with love and generosity, showing how much Whitecourt takes care of its own. “It really is overwhelming, truly,” said Whitecourt Christmas Hamper Chair Kim Tschigerl, as she looked towards the mountains of presents before her. “We live in a great community that gives from the heart. They really do.” So much so, that this year, the Hamper received more stuffies than expected, thanks in great part to the Wolverine’s recent Teddy Bear Toss. “We have an overabundance, and what’s really great about that is that our teenagers get more of a variety and will get a stuffed animal that is more suited to their age, like the Squishmallows, which we received lots of (through REMAX’s business nomination game).” Tschigerl said that some of the remaining stuffies will be shared with local community organizations in need who work with children. “At the end of the day, you just go home and say, thank you, God,” said Tschigerl, wiping away a tear. “It truly is amazing.” Great work to all who donated, shared the message, collected donations, wrapped gifts or supported the process in any way. The joy you’ve given to area families, with selfless and generous actions, lives up to the true meaning of Christmas.