Prospera and Archway staff at the Prospera on Delair Rd receiving last year’s gifts.
The 13th annual Prospera Credit Union Youth Angel Tree Project is once again collecting Christmas gifts to brighten the holiday season for local youth facing challenging times. This heartwarming initiative is run in collaboration with the Archway Youth Resource Centre, which offers support services, street outreach, and crisis interventions for youth and families.
“Prospera’s generosity through the Angel Tree Project has been truly amazing every Christmas! Their support has made a significant impact on our youth and families over the past 13 years,” said Brandy Sundstrom, a youth worker at Archway.
Barb Slack, the Abbotsford Branch Manager at Prospera, shared that the staff and members eagerly anticipate the Angel Tree Program each year.
“Every year, we are honoured to support local kids who are facing tough times. This initiative is a wonderful chance for the community to share the love and make Christmas special for these youth,” said Slack.
“Every year, we are honoured to support local kids who are facing tough times. This initiative is a wonderful chance for the community to share the love and make Christmas special for these youth.”
Sundstrom highlighted the difficulties faced by the youth during the holiday season.
“Some of our youth receiving gifts are unhoused or couch-surfing, others are struggling with day-to-day survival and don’t have family networks to rely on for emotional support.”
Community members can choose from about 70 tags at Prospera’s two Abbotsford branches, each tag containing personalized gift suggestions for local youth. The gift ideas range from shoes, socks, and clothes to grocery store gift cards, household items, and books.
“Many of our youth are very alone and miss out on Christmas dinners, family gatherings, or presents under a tree. They are deeply touched that a complete stranger has gone out of their way to get them a personalized gift. We are showing them that the community cares about them and that they have not been forgotten,” said Sundstrom.
Once the new gifts are brought back, Prospera staff assemble and wrap them, and Archway Youth Workers deliver the gifts to the recipients.
“It never gets old seeing the youth light up with excitement when our team delivers their gifts,” said Sundstrom.
“We want to extend a huge THANK YOU to Prospera and everyone spreading joy this Christmas season! These youth often feel alone but this initiative provides more than just gifts; it brings joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging to the community.”
Community members wishing to participate can pick up a tag at one of the two Prospera branches in Abbotsford – 34630 DeLair Rd., and the West Oaks branch at 32700 South Fraser Way. Gifts must be returned to Prospera by December 13th.
“We want to extend a huge THANK YOU to Prospera and everyone spreading joy this Christmas season! These youth often feel alone but this initiative provides more than just gifts; it brings joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging to the community.”
About Prospera Credit Union
Prospera Credit Union is a community-based, purpose-driven organization offering a full range of financial products and services. As one of the largest credit unions in BC, Prospera has 26 branches throughout Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and the Okanagan, proudly serving over 100,000 members. With a mission to build vibrant, healthy communities, thriving local enterprises, and financially empowered individuals, Prospera understands that local banking means more and is committed to investing in local good. Visit prospera.ca to learn more.
