CHESTERMERE – The Christmas spirit was alive and well on this bright sunny Saturday and there was certainly no shortage of entertainment at the Christmas with Dignity celebration on December 15th at the Chestermere Town Hall. When entering the sun filled atrium you were hit with a large Christmas tree, huge sounding orchestra and standing room only of people enjoying the festivities.
In the upper level the Chestermere High School Jazz band played a number of tunes and many talented students had a solo performance. These students obviously work hard and practice often, and it shows in their near flawless presentation. A deserving round of applause followed each tune and the crowd wanted more of the same pleasing tunes.
On the main level were a number of auction items from art to gift baskets to spa treatments. All of the proceeds from the auction would go to the Christmas with Dignity fund.
In another corner of the lobby were several adults and children were gathered and waited for their turn to go into the council chambers area. Within the room were a number of gifts of every description and modest price range. This is where the kids could come in, purchase the item for their parents and/or siblings and then go into another room to have the gift wrapped up and ready to put under the tree. The kids had some guidance from volunteers who helped them with gift choices. The kids enjoyed using their own money and doing this on their own without the help from their parents. Mattamy Homes donated $1000 to purchase gifts as well the Catholic Women’s League donated several gift cards to the fund.
On the lower level in the Chestermere Public Library, Jolly Santa sat in a room decorated in Christmas cheer where he had several pictures taken with the numerous children taking in the festivities upstairs.
Although the name Christmas with Dignity would suggest the fund is set up just for the Christmas season; it is actually a program that families can access all year long for basic needs such as food, utilities, housing, dental services and medication. Donations are accepted at Community Services at Chestermere Town Hall all year long.
