This holiday season, the Surrey Christmas Bureau is facing the highest level of need in its 45-year history—more families, more children, and more urgency than ever before. With over 3,600 applications and 2,400 families already approved for support, the organization is calling on the community to help ensure every child experiences joy and dignity this December. We spoke with Karmin Dhindsa, Program Coordinator, about what’s happening on the ground, how the Bureau is responding, and what British Columbians can do right now to make a meaningful difference. —Noa Nichol
What factors are driving such an unprecedented surge in need this year?
This is the highest level of need in our 45-year history, and several factors are contributing. The rising cost of living is having a profound impact—especially the price of food, rent, and basic essentials. Many families are experiencing reduced work hours, fewer employment opportunities, or job loss altogether. Wages simply aren’t keeping pace with inflation, and even households that were managing in previous years are now struggling.
A difficult reality is that poverty doesn’t discriminate. This year we are seeing many families who never expected to need support but whose circumstances changed quickly. These economic pressures are pushing more parents to reach out for help to ensure their children have a joyful and secure holiday.
What does a typical day look like inside the Toy Depot during this demand?
The Toy Depot is incredibly busy—no two days look the same. Over the holiday season, more than 25 corporate volunteer groups, multiple work placement students, and about 300 volunteers contribute over 8,000 hours to make the program run.
We have volunteers assisting with application file reviews, reception, administration, toy sorting, stocking, shopping support, and more. The scale of our operations is only possible because of the generosity of our volunteers and donors.
From a family’s perspective:
- Families apply between mid-October and December 1.
- Our team reviews each application to ensure it meets eligibility criteria.
- Approved families schedule a time to visit the depot.
- When they arrive, volunteers help them check in, receive grocery support, and shop for toys for their children.
We offer a shopping-style experience because we value dignity and choice. Every family has unique needs, and we aim to honour that.
What does the Surrey Christmas Bureau provide—and what difference does it make?
Each family receives grocery support to cover breakfast, lunch, and dinner for Christmas Day. In 2024, we distributed $245,000 in grocery vouchers, which provided 23,313 meals.
We also provide new toys, books, bikes, clothing, and other gifts to nearly 5,000 children. For many families, this support means relief, hope, and the ability to celebrate the season with dignity. It ensures parents can provide a meaningful holiday experience for their children during a difficult time.
Is there one story that has really stayed with you this season?
There are many moments that touch our hearts, but one that stands out is a single mother who came in for support this year. She had received help from us in the past, but this year she was facing something unimaginable—the loss of her young child to cancer.
Being at the depot brought a mix of joy and deep pain as she selected gifts for her other children. Our volunteers supported her gently as she navigated her grief. It was a powerful reminder of how meaningful our programs are—not just the gifts themselves, but the hope, care, and dignity they represent. Our work is truly rooted in care for families and children.
What donations are needed most urgently right now?
We urgently need support for teens (ages 12–18), who are often the most difficult age group to shop for. High-impact items include:
- Gift cards in $25 increments
- Sports equipment
- Makeup and hygiene items
- Electronics such as headphones
For babies ages 0–3, we need medium to large gifts like building blocks, wooden toys, and learning items.
We also urgently need donations for our grocery hamper fund. Community members can donate securely at christmasbureau.com.
Toy donations can be dropped off at:
13665 102 Avenue, Surrey BC
or any Surrey Fire Hall
We are open Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until December 20.
For questions: [email protected] or 604-581-9623.
Why is grocery assistance such an important part of holiday support?
Grocery support is essential to ensuring families experience dignity and choice. Instead of a pre-packed food hamper, families receive a voucher so they can purchase the foods that fit their cultural practices, dietary needs, or their children’s preferences.
Parents of infants have shared how meaningful it is to be able to buy formula that works for their baby. Others appreciate being able to purchase ingredients for their holiday traditions. This support goes far beyond food as it provides families with respect and autonomy during a difficult time.
How is your team coping with the emotional and logistical challenges this year?
It has been an emotional and demanding season for everyone. Our families are struggling, and many donors are facing their own financial challenges as well. Despite this, our volunteers and staff are giving everything they have to ensure every eligible family is supported.
We are asking the community, if you’re able, even a small donation can help make a child’s holiday brighter. The need is urgent and greater than ever.
What is one thing Surrey residents should understand about the families seeking help?
Families come from a wide range of backgrounds, jobs, cultures, and circumstances. Many never imagined needing support. With the cost of living skyrocketing, any one of us could find ourselves in a similar position.
At the heart of all of this are the children. A single toy or a warm meal can make an incredible difference in a child’s life. This program is about giving children joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging during the holidays.
How can people help if they can’t donate money or toys?
Sharing our message makes a real difference. Raising awareness helps us reach more potential donors and volunteers.
Anyone is also welcome to volunteer. Please sign up online at christmasbureau.com then visit the depot at 13665 102 Avenue, Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and we’ll help you get oriented to volunteer for your first shift. Nearly 300 volunteers support us with more than 8,000 hours of service each season.
Looking ahead, what long-term community support would help prevent so many families from reaching crisis levels?
There’s no single solution; it will take a multifaceted approach. We need meaningful changes in the cost of living, rent, grocery prices, government support programs, and sustainable support for community organizations.
My hope is that one day, there will be no need and that charities like ours wouldn’t need to exist. But the reality right now is that families are experiencing one of the most challenging years.
What we can promise is that we will continue doing everything we can and our hope is that, as a community, we get through these hard times together.
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