Surrey Christmas Bureau is feeling the lack of commercial space in the town.
The charity is looking for a place to house its annual toy depot this fall, with no success so far.
Last year’s depot site, the former Safeway store in Whalleyis not available for the Christmas Office this year.
“We stayed there for a year and it was probably the best place we’ve ever had,” said Lisa Werring, executive director. “They even left us all their shelves, but they (the building owners) managed to find a tenant for the next few years. I do not know who.
Now the Christmas Office is looking for a donation of 10,000 square foot open concept warehouse space for two to three months this fall, preferably with ample parking and a loading bay. , and close to public transport. The call is for any landlord, property manager or building owner who may be able to help.
“We need an early Christmas miracle,” Werring said.
“The kind of space we need is becoming quite scarce with the pace of development in Surrey,” she added. “It’s hard to find, but it’s what we need to operate. We would also consider Newton and Guildford, but would really prefer the downtown area of Surrey.
The mission of the Christmas Office is to provide toys and holiday meals to families in Surrey who otherwise could not afford Christmas gifts for their children.
Last year, the organization issued nearly $190,000 in grocery vouchers, which translates to 21,102 holiday meals, and provided new toys for 4,520 children.
“With inflation, this year is going to be very difficult for families, we are sure,” Werring said.
Online registration will take place in mid-October, but first you have to find a place. Call 604-581-9623 if you can help, email Coordinator@christmasbureau.com or visit bureaudenoel.com.
tom.zillich@surreynowleader.com
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