The annual Campbell River Community Christmas Hamper Fund is back for its 52nd year, organized once again by the Knights of Columbus.

The goal this year is to deliver food hampers to 800 local households in need, and organizers are calling for donations to help meet that target.

The effort depends on community support, with businesses, schools, and service clubs collecting non-perishables and providing funds for the rest of the food.

Volunteers then assemble and deliver the hampers in time for Christmas.

But rising costs have outpaced monetary donations in recent years, so the fund is especially in need of financial help this season.

The Hamper Office is now open at 151-B Dogwood Street, near 2nd Avenue, accepting donations of cash, cheques, e-transfers, and non-perishable food Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Donations can also be made online through Canada Helps, and registration forms for hampers are available at the Ministry of Income Assistance Office or the Campbell River Food Bank.

The deadline to register is December 3rd, or until 800 applications have been received.

Delivery Day is set for Saturday, December 13th, at St. Patrick’s Church Hall on South Alder Street.

More details are available through St Patrick's Parish.