Editor’s Note: A previous version of this story referring to Trish incorrectly said she was a homeless mother of six who had been waiting in line since 4 a.m. In fact, she is a mother of two and is not homeless. She had been in line since 8 a.m. We apologize for the error.
It’s a cold Monday morning outside the Western Fair Agriplex, where more than 100 Londoners have lined up in hopes of accessing the Salvation Army’s Christmas hamper program — a week-long program that aims to provide families with food for the holidays, along with toys for those aged 12 and under.
“I’m down here for my children today,” said Nicole, a London mother who waited in line since 4 a.m.
“I have six of them and we could really use the help.”
Nicole describes the holiday season as a difficult time of year.
“My struggle right now is being homeless and not being able to provide the stuff that my children need like gifts this year… because I need to save up for a home,” Nicole said.
“This makes a great difference.”
Salvation Army spokesperson Shannon Wise expects 6,500 families will be aided by this year’s Christmas hamper program.
While many show up for the first day of the program, Wise says the Salvation Army has enough hampers to go around for the program’s week-long duration.
“Rest assured, if you can’t make it on Day 1 or if the lineup’s too long, just wait until later on in the week, and we’re happy to serve you,” Wise said.
Donations are still being accepted, with Londoners able to drop off their toys at fire halls, Masonville Place, White Oaks or either of the Salvation Army locations on King Street or Wellington Street.
Those looking to access the program can do so by heading over the Western Fair Agriplex. The program runs between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. from Dec. 16 to 20.
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