As we enter the giving season, a couple of local organizations that work to ensure no family goes without over the holidays have calls out to those with big hearts.

Adopt a Family programs in both Lacombe and Red Deer are currently seeking more sponsors to match with families in need.

Sponsors receive a Christmas wish list from those families needing a helping hand and the sponsors work to ensure all kids have gifts under the tree and families have food for the holidays.

Crystal Zens with Lacombe Big Brothers Big Sisters says they are working to make Christmas a reality for 26 families.

“The families are part of our Big Brothers organization and they are matched essentially with a community business or organization and they basically take care of their wish list, any food needs, and any basic necessities”.

They just need to match 3 or 4 more families with sponsors for their program according to Zens.

In Red Deer the Salvation Army takes the charge on the Adopt a Family program, Major Larry Bridger says at this time they have more families in need than sponsors.

“Last year we assisted 221 families and 23 seniors, and this year we are up to 114 families so far, we still have pretty much 3 weeks to go for registrations”.

 There’s one area in particular they are looking to make some more sponsor matches according to Bridger.

“We are in need especially of sponsors for small to medium sized families and that’s generally one or two parents with two to three children”.

If you’re interested in sponsoring a family, in Red Deer call 403-346-2251 or drop by The Salvation Church (4837 – 54 Street), in Lacombe contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at 403-782-7870.