Santa and Mrs. Claus were hard at work bringing holiday cheer to West Shore residents on Tuesday (Dec. 21), but this time they were being assisted by volunteers with Royal Canadian Legion Branch 91 in Langford, rather than their usual elves.
Or perhaps it was really the Clauses who were assisting, as the legion volunteers hustled and bustled while the festive couple smiled and waved as families waited to pick up their packages as part of the third edition of the branch’s West Shore Community Christmas Dinner for Families in Need.
The event, which is held annually but was temporarily put on hold last year due to public health restrictions, provides families in need with a hot turkey dinner, some Christmas gifts and some additional foodstuffs.
“It’s fantastic we are able to do it again this year,” said branch president Norm Scott. “It’s good for families to have the opportunity to have a dinner. That’s the main reason why we do this.”
This year, the Legion handed out 226 meals and 112 gifts to 73 families, which Scott said was a similar number compared to previous years.
The event is run with the support of the City of Langford, City of Colwood, District of Metchosin, and a toy donation drive.
“We want to keep it going because it is part of our community and our mandate,” Scott said. “It’s our way of giving back.”
READ MORE: Langford poppy campaign falls short of 2021 goal, legion considering other donation options
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