Stocking Stuffers for Seniors has been extended at London Drugs.
Every year a Christmas tree decorated with paper tags is put up outside the store in ValleyFair Mall.
On the tags are the wish lists from local seniors, who have been identified as a person in need, this holiday season.
Customers are asked to choose a tag and purchase the items on the list.
However, this year, as the London Drugs store in Maple Ridge has the most unclaimed tags left on the tree, so the program has been extended to Thursday, Dec. 14.
And the need has grown this year.
Bev Schmahmann, outreach coordinator with the Ridge Meadows Seniors Society, said they try to fill between 240 to 250 bags if they can. But this year, she said, the need is huge – much more than in past years.
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“People are really strapped for having essentials,” she said when the program launched mid-November, noting that some medical items like Polysporin and Band-Aids have also been added to the lists as well as lap blankets, toques, playing cards, different items the seniors wouldn’t normally be able to buy themselves.
Dan Huff, store manager, noted the list of products on each tag are only suggestions for the gift bag. If someone wants to substitute, that is fine too, but the items must be brand new. Once all the items are purchased the bag can be dropped off at the customer service counter at the front of the store, along with the tag.
The program is run across Western Canada and has been a holiday tradition since 2015.
READ MORE: Wish lists decorate Maple Ridge tree for seniors in need
“The holiday season is a time for giving, and it’s essential that we extend our generosity to those who need it most,” said Clint Mahlman, president and COO of London Drugs.
“Our Stocking Stuffers for Seniors initiative aims to provide essential support and bring joy to the lives of seniors who may be experiencing financial hardship. It is about letting them know that they are not forgotten over the holidays, and that their community truly cares about their well-being.”
To help out the campaign London Drugs is located at 228 Street and Lougheed Highway, in ValleyFair Mall, 22709 Lougheed Highway, Maple Ridge.
For more information about program contact Schmahmann at 604-380-0516.
To learn about the Ridge Meadows Seniors Society go to: rmssseniors.org.
