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As the Christmas lights and decorations go up, charities throughout the Thompson-Okanagan region are looking for your help to make the season bright for all.

The annual Tree of Hope Light Up will be taking place in Kelowna on Friday, Nov. 24.

In partnership with Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market, the Stober Foundation will create a “winter wonderland” on the 19th floor of Landmark 7 tower featuring over 30 vendors. Stober will also be making a significant donation to the Central Okanagan Food Bank.

Lake Country Health will also be tackling the cost of living crisis with its 'Nomination Program'.

Executive director Lonna Grange says calls from people who are already worried about Christmas and can’t afford to buy food, gas and pay rent are increasing. In response, the organization has launched a program to help identify families and seniors who may be struggling over the Christmas period.

“It's an opportunity for us to come together, show compassion and bring holiday magic to those who may need it most,” Grange said in a press release.

The Kelowna General Hospital Foundation in conjunction with JoeAnna’s House, are inviting locals to an event that celebrate community and togetherness this holiday season. 

Winter Wonderland at JoeAnna’s House will take place on Sunday, Dec.17, and will raise funds for JoeAnna’s House, which provides affordable accommodation for patients travelling to Kelowna General Hospital for advanced care.

“Picture an afternoon filled with laughter and comfort, where our community comes together for a time where love knows no distance,” Darlene Haslock, director of JoeAnna’s House, said in a press release. “That’s what we’re aiming for this year with Winter Wonderland – a peek into JoeAnna’s House and an afternoon of warmth and joy during this holiday season – no matter what the temperature is outside.”

In Kamloops, The Shoebox Project for Women will be collecting and delivering personally crafted gifts to local women impacted by homelessness.

This year’s Kamloops Shoebox Project started on Nov. 1, and will be running until Dec. 19. Participants are asked to either donate online or with a shoebox.

“This project is not only a reminder to these women that they matter, but it also unites the community by coming together for something greater than ourselves,” Taylor Bertoli, Kamloops Chapter Shoebox Coordinator, said in a press release.

Participants are asked to fill shoeboxes with $50 worth of essential items such as mitts, socks, toques, vitamins and hygiene items, as well as pampering goods like nail polish and bath products.

The boxes are then distributed to various organizations across the Kamloops region.

Kelowna's Gospel Mission is aiming to raise $300,000 to support the essential services they provide to local homeless community this Christmas.

The Mission’s Christmas Match Campaign runs until Nov. 28.

“I am always overwhelmed by the compassion and support that we see throughout the year,” Troy McKnight, director of resource development, said in a press release. “But I am especially moved by the outpouring of generosity and care we experience over the holiday season. It reminds our neighbours in need that they are seen, valued and cared for.”

Meanwhile, Vernon Jubilee Hospital has launched its 36th annual Light a Bulb campaign to raise funds for a state-of-the-art X-ray machine.

“Quick access to X-rays are essential for timely assessment and optimal patient care,” Dr. Adam Weathermon, department head, Medical Imaging VJH, said in a press release. “Another machine will mean we can do thousands more X-rays each year, ensuring more people in the North Okanagan have access to the best standard of care.”
 
Each year, Light a Bulb helps to support initiatives that may otherwise go without funding and last year funded the purchase of a second CT scanner, which will be operational this November.

Did we miss a Christmas charity event in your community? Please share the details in the comment section below and let our readers know about it.

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