Auctioneer Darren Lutz calls out the bidding at Dayz Off Pub during last year's Santa Claus Fund auction. Coronavirus restrictions have forced organizers to postpone this year's event--NEWS FILE PHOTO
Health orders limiting gatherings have postponed a major fundraiser of the Medicine Hat News Santa Claus Fund, the group that helps those struggling financially to have a merry Christmas.
Organizers say however, they are steadfast that the work will continue and they thank existing donors and called upon new donors to pitch in to help with an expected 25 per cent increase in families requesting support with gifts and food vouchers.
“In order to protect our donors, volunteers, staff and the community we made the difficult decision to postpone the auction,” said Theresa Hardiker, the fund’s president. “All is not lost however, and the march to $1 million will continue when safety will allow.”
The event, originally planned for Dec. 10 at the Dayz Off Pub, would have been the 30th annual instalment and would have likely brought the all-time total above the $1-million mark.
No rain check date is set, but Hardiker said donors haven’t let COVID stop them yet, and said cash donations are still accepted at the Dayz Off Pub and toys can be dropped off at the SCF Holiday Home at 3086 Dunmore Rd.
A variety of other avenues to give are listed on the Santa Claus Fund’s website.
The 2019 edition of the auction brought in $46,000 for bid items donated by local businesses and individuals. Along with other fundraising that year the agency helped about 590 families, including a total of 1,200 children.
This week the province declared a state of public health emergency across Alberta to help arrest rising cases of COVID-19.
Bars and restaurants are now restricted to one-quarter their seating capacity. Tables must comprise only the members of one household, and serving alcohol must end at 10 p.m., one hour before a mandated closing time.
Most retailers and businesses are also restricted, and outdoor gatherings must not involve more than 10 people in general contact.
New health orders have also led to the cancellation of the Stampede Farmer’s Christmas Market, which was set for Saturday. As well, Medicine Hat Mall owner Primaris REIT announced it will not be able to accommodate pictures with Santa, but more information was to be released soon.
