The Salvation army had their Christmas cheer distribution day Sunday to organize all the donations they've received since September, but had some extra help from a surprising source.
Shortly after dropping off well-known Canadian actor/singer Tom Jackson and his accompaniments at the Prince George Airport, Salvation Army community ministries coordinator Barbara Croome got a phone call.
"They called and said their flight had been canceled, and asked what we were up today, and if they could help out," said Croome. "So they all came out - Tom and Alison Jackson, their starting bands and even the tech-guys - and organized the Teddy Bear Room. It was a lot of fun having them around for the day."
Tom Jackson performed at the Prince George Playhouse Saturday night as part of his 7th season of Singing For Supper, a national Christmas concert series which donates all proceeds to Salvation Army.
It took five hours and about 40 volunteers to get the everything ready for the families to come and pick out their Christmas.
Toys and food was donated by sponsors to support 195 adoptive families, which was all handed out over the weekend through the Salvation Army. Monday, 540 pre-registered families will be able to come in and pick out toys to make their own Christmas.
"These families have lost so much, and they don't need us to tell them what their Christmas is going to look like. So we have it set up that the families come in and choose their toys and hand pick their Christmas. It's important that these people get to keep their dignity," said Croome.
Donations allow for each child, up to the age of 17, to have two toys. There are also toques, scarves, mittens and stocking stuffers available to the families.
The Salvation Army has provided for an additional 100 families this year, and they can always expect between 20 to 30 extra, emergency families in the week running up to Christmas.
"The community has really responded to the need this season. I'm always amazed at how the donations always meet the needs of the people," she said.
Yet, there is a lack of gifts for the 13 to 17 age group. Croome said the best gift for this group is a $20 gift certificate to Pine Centre Mall. She hopes these can come by today, but said people should keep in mind that toys are still accepted all the way up to Christmas.
"We don't hoard any of the donations - trust me, they all find homes."
Salvation is also offering a drop-in Christmas dinner Dec. 22 from 3:30-6:30 p.m., and everyone is welcome to attend.
