Santa and Mrs. Claus, with official greetings from Mission’s new Mayor, Pam Alexis, helped launch the 2018 Mission Community Services Christmas Bureau – Wish Campaign with new excitement on Nov. 8 at Unit 142 at The Junction Shopping Centre.

Jolly Old Elf, Mrs. Claus and great community contributors share the fun of opening day at the Christmas Bureau. Yes, that is new Mission Coun. Jag Gill on right. Behind them is the shelving for teen gifts which needs a big boost.

“I see you have an incredible start here,” said Alexis.  “The teen section is a little bare, and I’m sure the community spirit is there to help with that.  Everyone here is responsible for making so many lives so much better.”

Volunteer team makes it all happen at Mission Christmas Bureau. That’s Mika, the Christmas Bureau coordinator on the far left.

Alexis reminded the gathering of some 30 community leaders at the soft reception that a number of special events supporting the cause in Mission are scheduled, including the Rotary Carol Festival Nov. 29 at Clarke Theatre.

Christmas Bureau coordinator Mika Brosseau emphasized the fact that teens from Mission will be helping in selecting gifts for teens, and parents registered for hampers and toys will have an opportunity to select their own toys from the Bureau’s selection.  Hear what Mika is saying on the radio about the Christmas Bureau HERE.

Volunteers and those who donate were praised for their efforts by MCSS executive director Sanjay Gulati and MCSS board of directors chairman, Bob Ingram.  Gulati said the Bureau had a head start with its toy selection because of its affiliation with a special charity in Vancouver.

The Christmas Bureau, operating in donated space provided by The Junction, will also be gift-wrapping items for a cash donation.

The Bureau will operate from Nov. 5 to Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 12 noon to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.  After that, hampers can be picked up at Mission Food Centre on Logan Avenue from Dec. 17 to Dec. 21.

All Mission Christmas Bureau details about registration, donations, application forms, can be accessed through the MCSS website HERE. Mika and Food Centre coordinator Avalon Lawrence are looking forward to a successful Christmas Bureau – Wish Campaign in 2018, serving families, single adults and seniors.

Dynamic coverage on the launch of the Mission Christmas Bureau can be found HERE.