Frequently Asked Questions
How long has the Christmas Hamper Project been running?
The Christmas Hamper Project has been running continuously since 1977.
How are recipients of Christmas hampers identified?
The Christmas Hamper Project works with social services agencies to identify those families and individuals within their communities who would benefit from receiving a hamper at this time of year.
I would like to receive a hamper. How can I get one?
If you have not been referred by a local social services agency to receive a hamper, please contact the Community Information Centre of Ottawa the official local provider of information and referrals. They can be reached by dialing 2-1-1 or by dialing 613-761-9076.
What does a hamper include?
Each hamper is to include small gifts of between $25 to $40 appropriate for each member on the hamper recipient list. It will also include a gift card so the recipients are able to purchase needed supplies and food.
How can I help out?
The Christmas Hamper Project has something for everyone:
- Adopt a hamper (Donate a hamper) (Gift Cards amounts, specific needs and general information about the recipients will be provided for the purpose of purchasing gifts).
- Help label, organize and carry hampers for a two hour period on Tuesday December 17th.
- Deliver hampers on Thursday December 19th; it is typically a two hour commitment.
- Donate cash to cover the cost of supplies and the Gift Cards for meat. (Please send a cheque made out to "Centretown United Church", 507 Bank Street, K2P 1Z5 indicating it is for the "Christmas Hamper Project". You can also donate online by clicking here and selecting the "Christmas Hampers Project" in the drop-down menu.)
If I donate a hamper, what is the value of the Gift Cards that will need to be purchased?
- A Single Adult: $100
- A Small Family (up to 5 members): $150
- Large Families (more than 5 members): $200
- Group Homes (10 adults): $250
What kind of gifts should I include in the hamper?
- Warm hat, gloves, mittens and scarf; also, warm socks. This suggestion is for both adults and children.
- Gift ideas for children: Age appropriate toys, books, puzzles, games, colouring books and art supplies, pyjamas.
- Warm blanket/ throw; toiletries; chocolate and snacks/ treats.
- A gift card for Shoppers or Walmart.
I have some gently used toys (decorations, bedding, clothing, etc.). Can I add those?
The hampers are gifts from you to the recipients. It is not usually considered appropriate to give used items as gifts, particularly to people you don’t know.
Can I deliver the hamper myself?
It is important to keep the anonymity and privacy of the recipients and one way of doing this is to have separate volunteers deliver the hampers.
I am a hamper adopter, can I drop off the hamper early on Thursday (the 19th)?
No, the sorting of hampers and gift cards requires a lot of preparation and the logistics are quite complicated. The additional confusion will make it challenging for all involved.
- A self-addressed (name should be the recipient of the tax receipt) and stamped envelope
- Receipt for the gift card purchase