Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Smoky River Region residents who need a little extra help this Christmas will have a little assistance to get them through the season.
Smoky River Family and Community Support Services director Crystal Tremblay says the Christmas Voucher program is set to return, giving a little extra comfort to families in need.
“The Christmas Voucher Program assists people who are struggling financially at Christmas,” says Tremblay.
“We provide each qualified applicant with a voucher to purchase food at either Falher Foods or Co-op, as well as toys for children aged 16 and younger. Each voucher amount is based on the size of the family.”
Tremblay explains the program is fully funded through donations that are received from the public each year. She adds FCSS could not afford to fund the program without the generous support of community members.
“Christmas is a very difficult time for many people, as finances are tight,” she says. “This takes the pressure off the individuals and families to know there is help, and they don’t have to choose between paying the power bill or having a Christmas for the family.”
A very substantial donation was given this year by ABO Energy in the amount of $2,500, an amount that will help to make a lot of local families’ Christmas a little brighter.
“We know that with everything costing more there are many people who are working that don’t make ends meet,” explains Tremblay.
“If you struggle to make ends meet, we encourage you to apply. You don’t need to be low income to apply, we just ask that you prove the need for the program, so your allowable expenses outweigh your income. If you’re unsure whether you qualify contact us.”
She says the vouchers are a certificate given to each successful applicant, allowing them to spend specific amounts at the local grocery stores. She says the total amount will vary depending on size of family. Some toys are also donated to each child under the age of 16.
Applications for the program are located at each municipality office, including Birch Hills County, and the Smoky River FCSS offices.
Applications run from Nov. 1 to Dec. 8 at 4:30 p.m., and Tremblay says no late applications will be accepted.
In 2023, FCSS handed out 53 applications, assisting 134 individuals in the region for a total of $8,350.
If you would like to donate to the Christmas Voucher program, please do not hesitate to call (780) 837-2220.