The 12th annual Prospera Credit Union Youth Angel Tree Project is collecting Christmas gifts to help brighten what can be a very dark and difficult time for some youth.
The project is run in collaboration with the Archway Youth Resource Centre, which provides youth and family support, street outreach services and crisis interventions.
“Prospera has truly amazed us with their Angel Tree generosity every Christmas! They’ve had such an impact on our youth and families over the past 12 years,” shared Brandy Sundstrom, an Archway youth worker.
Barb Slack, Abbotsford Branch Manager at Prospera, says every year staff and members of the credit union look forward to the Angel Tree Program. “The amount of generosity we witness is what makes the magic of Christmas. Knowing that we are able to help kids who are often forgotten and struggling feel loved is remarkable.”
“Christmas is a tough time for the youth we work with,” shared Sundstrom. “Some of the youth that will receive the gifts are unhoused or couch-surfing, others are estranged from their families, and all of them are living below the poverty line.”
“The amount of generosity we witness is what makes the magic of Christmas. Knowing that we are able to help kids who are often forgotten and struggling feel loved is remarkable.”
There are tags for about 70 youth at Prospera’s two Abbotsford branches that community members can choose from. The tags include personalized gift suggestions for local youth, and 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 will miss out on Christmas dinners, family gatherings, or presents to open under a tree. The youth are so touched that a complete stranger has gone out of their way to get them a gift. Many of them hope to do the same thing for others when their situations improve.”
Once the new gifts are brought back, Prospera staff assemble and wrap the gifts, and Youth Workers at Archway deliver them to the recipients.
“We love getting to deliver the gifts and see the youth light up with excitement!” said Sundstrom.
“We want to say a huge THANK YOU to Prospera and all of the people who are spreading joy this Christmas Season! This initiative does so much more than provide gifts. It provides joy, comfort and a sense of belonging in the community.”
Community members wishing to participate can pick up a tag before Dec 7th at one of the two Prospera branches in Abbotsford – 34630 DeLair Rd., and the West Oaks branch at 32700 South Fraser Way.
“We want to say a huge THANK YOU to Prospera and all of the people who are spreading joy this Christmas Season! This initiative does so much more than provide gifts. It provides joy, comfort and a sense of belonging in the community.”
About Prospera Credit Union
Prospera Credit Union is a community-based, purpose-driven organization that offers 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 and proudly serves over 100,000 members. With an enduring purpose to build vibrant, healthy communities, thriving local enterprises and financially empowered people, Prospera understands that local banking means more and is committed to investing in local good. Visit prospera.ca to learn more.
