That parking ticket can once again turn into a nice little gift, all thanks to the city's Toys for Tickets campaign.
This is the second year that St. Albert's municipal enforcement department is offering the ticket alternative after its phenomenal success in 2009. Last year the project received more than $4,500 of toys on behalf of the Fill-A-Bus campaign, benefiting the St. Albert Kinettes' Christmas Hamper program.
Stu Fraser, St. Albert's peace officer program supervisor, explained why the city runs this two-week campaign.
"The city thinks that it's a worthwhile campaign to help the disadvantaged at the time of year when we all stop to think about the less fortunate."
The campaign runs until Dec. 7. During this time, the city will accept new, unwrapped toys as an alternative form of payment for eligible parking violations between now and Nov. 30.
The ticket must be paid with a toy within the early payment date range. The toy must be new, in its original packaging and include the receipt showing its value equals or exceeds $25. Toys will be accepted at the St. Albert RCMP Detachment located at 96 Bellerose Dr.
Knights co-ordinate town Christmas Hampers
It's that time of year again for jolly old souls and kids to frolic in the snow. For many people it also means an added financial burden because of the extra expense of family dinners and presents under the tree.
That's why the Knights of Columbus has stepped up to help out with the Christmas Hamper project for Morinville and district. There were 87 hampers of food and toys handed out last year and similar numbers are expected this time around.
Henry Lamoureux, project co-ordinator with the Knights of Columbus, Ste. Anne Council No. 5010, explained fewer people need the hampers today than in the past.
"I would say, 10 years ago it was worse than what it is now."
Knights of Columbus has asked the public to support the hampers through donations of nutritious non-perishable food plus unwrapped and brand new (or gently used) children's toys. These items can be dropped off at: The Helping Hand Store, Bumper to Bumper/Home Hardware, Our Place, Sobeys, Scotiabank, Royal Bank, Servus Credit Union and the No Frills Store.
Financial contributions can also be made at the St. Jean Baptiste Church. Please make cheques out to the Knights of Columbus. Income tax receipts will be issued.
Individuals and families eligible to receive hampers will be contacted by the town's Family & Community Support Services department. For those in need of assistance, please call the Town of Morinville at 780-939-4361 or the Drop-In Centre at 780-939-3953 before Dec. 17. You can also phone to refer someone else.
Hampers are scheduled for distribution starting on Dec. 20. For more information on the hamper co-ordination, please call the church at 780-939-4412.
