In a powerful display of community and continued service, the Veterans Association Food Bank (VAFB) in Calgary successfully delivered more than 300 personalized Christmas hampers to veterans and their families this past Saturday. The massive effort was powered by a dedicated force of over 100 volunteers, many of whom have served in the military themselves.
A Mission Driven by Service
The 7th Annual Christmas Hamper Deliveries saw approximately 340 carefully curated packages distributed across the city. VAFB board chairman Chris Lefaivre, a former United Nations peacekeeper in Iraq, emphasized that the drive to give back is deeply ingrained in the veteran community. "A lot of the veterans, we believe in service, and we believe in giving back," Lefaivre said. "I think that's sort of ingrained in us, that we put service before self, and that's what we really focus on as we help out today."
Volunteers had been preparing the hampers for nearly a month. Each hamper was customized to the recipient's household, ensuring they contained everything needed for a warm holiday meal. The deliveries also included around 100 gifts for veterans' children and 50 to 60 presents for family pets.
Meeting a Critical and Growing Need
The festive delivery comes at a crucial time for the organization. Just last month, VAFB reported an alarming 80 per cent decline in donations, even as the need for its services has increased compared to previous years. "It's really critical that we have these donations, and we're really grateful that we have so much that we can offer to our veterans today," Lefaivre noted.
While the Christmas initiative is a major annual event, Lefaivre stressed that the need is year-round. The food bank also provides monthly hampers, meaning the call for community support and donations continues long after the holiday season ends. "We have enough that we can serve those hampers today, those 300 hampers, but we're in continuous need," he explained.
Volunteers Who Understand: Giving Back After Receiving Help
The volunteer corps included people like Ray Cameron, a veteran who has been on both the giving and receiving ends of the VAFB's support. Cameron served for 39 and a half years across the army, navy, and air force, primarily as an aerospace control operator. His transition to civilian life in May 2023 was difficult. "I lost the love of my life, I really did. You have to start a whole new life over, and it's difficult," he shared.
After facing administrative issues with his retirement release, Cameron was directed to the VAFB. "The Veterans Association Food Bank stepped in right away, and they filled all the shortcomings," he said. "They made sure I had whatever I needed." Now, he volunteers as a way to continue his lifetime of service. For him and many others, the work provides a profound sense of purpose. "It gives us a purpose greater than ourselves," Cameron reflected, highlighting the deep bond and mutual support within the veteran community.
The event, captured in photos showing lines of volunteers and personalized hampers ready for delivery, stands as a testament to Calgary's commitment to supporting those who have served their country.
