The Campbell River Community Christmas Hamper Fund is back for its 52nd year, with the Knights of Columbus once again coordinating the effort to support local households during the holiday season.

This year’s goal is to deliver food hampers to 800 families, and organizers are urging the community to step up with both food and financial donations.

Today is the deadline to register with delivery day set for Saturday, December 13 at St. Patrick’s Church Hall on South Alder Street.

The program depends on support from businesses, schools, service clubs and individual residents, who supply non-perishable food and contribute funds for the remaining groceries needed to fill each hamper.

Volunteers will assemble and deliver the hampers ahead of Christmas.

However, organizers say rising costs have made it harder to meet demand, and monetary donations are especially important this season.

The Hamper Office at 151-B Dogwood Street is now open Monday through Saturday from 10:00am to 5:00pm, accepting cash, cheques, e-transfers, non-perishables, and online donations through CanadaHelps.org. Registration forms for hamper recipients are available at the Ministry of Income Assistance Office or the Campbell River Food Bank.

More information is available through St. Patrick's Parish.