Hundreds across Lower Mainland volunteer for Christmas charities

While most of British Columbia spent the morning celebrating Christmas with loved ones, some volunteered their time to help others.

White Spot continued their tradition of raising money for local charities at two locations in the Lower Mainland. Staff donated their time to the cause, and all proceeds and tips went towards the Richmond Hospital Foundation and Variety Children’s Charity.

By the end of the day, the two locations had combined to raise $16,792.

In the Downtown Eastside, 1500 people gathered at Salvation Army headquarters for their annual meal. Over 220 volunteers helped serve the traditional meal of turkey, potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce – with pumpkin pie for dessert.

“We serve this meal over a 4 hour period so that people can take their time, eat their meal at a slower pace than usual and…maybe have a bit of coffee with a friend,” said Judy Regamey, Executive Director of the Vancouver Salvation Army Harbour Light.

“The volunteers are fantastic…we start taking names down for volunteers around Thanksgiving and in just a couple of weeks we’re full.”

One of the volunteers was Dave Doroghy, who says he’s part of a group that goes caroling door to door every year for the Salvation Army.

“It almost feels like family for me being here every Christmas Day. It’s wonderful to share it with them and the good work the Salvation Army does continues to astound me and warm my heart,” he said.