Greater Saint John has come out in force to help those in need have a brighter holiday season.
The Saint John Police Force’s first Holiday in a Box campaign wrapped up over the weekend.
A total of 467 shoeboxes filled with essential items, treats and other items were collected during the month-long campaign.
Chief Robert Bruce there was a bit of apprehension launching a new campaign, especially during the holiday season.
“As community needs increase, people are confronted with the difficult decision on what organizations or campaigns they can support,” said Bruce.
“The people of Saint John and the members of the Saint John Police Force responded to the challenge with an overwhelming show of support.”
Five community organizations in the city’s priority neighbourhoods will ensure each box gets delivered to a deserving person in the city.
Representatives from each of the organizations picked up the boxes from the Saint John Police Force headquarters on Tuesday.
Chief Robert Bruce stands next to the wrapped shoeboxes collected as part of the Holiday in a Box campaign. (Image: Brad Perry)
Dustin Leclerc, executive director of the Carleton Community Centre, said the campaign does more than just provide people with essential items.
“More than anything, I think it just means there’s people that care about them, there’s people that are there,” said Leclerc.
Insp. Tanya Leblanc, who led the campaign for the police force, said the final total went well beyond their initial expectations.
As a former community police officer in the old north end, Leblanc said she understands there is a need in the community.
“We all take having the basic essentials for granted and this is what the holiday boxes are providing to less fortunate adults in the community,” she said.
“It’s just a way to spread a little bit of Christmas cheer and make things a little merrier for people that would otherwise likely go without.”
Leblanc said she hopes the event will become an annual event in the community.
Meanwhile, Bruce said he could not be more proud of those who stepped up to help out.
“You made a difference in the life of someone you didn’t know and that’s pretty special in and of itself.”
The Saint John Police Force is wrapping up its first Holiday in a Box campaign.
Chief Robert Bruce says a total of 467 packages containing essential items, treats and other items will be distributed to those in need. pic.twitter.com/nVrhc1KAZY
— Brad Perry (@BradMPerry) December 21, 2021
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