Colborne Legion Branch 187: A Christmas Hamper Tradition That Brings a Community Together
- Ed Quinlan
- Dec 24, 2025
- 2 min read
For years, the Colborne Legion Branch 187 Christmas Hamper Program has been one of the community’s most cherished holiday traditions. Led with unwavering dedication by Norma White Johnston, the program begins its work long before the snow settles—often as early as November—when families submit requests to be included in the annual hamper distribution.
What follows is a months‑long effort powered by kindness, generosity, and an incredible team of volunteers. This year, the need was significant: 66 families, including 47 children, received support through the program.
The Lead-Up: Donations, Partners & Community Support
As the holiday season approaches, the community rallies together to make the hamper program possible. This year, more than $5,000 in cash donations was raised through the generosity of local residents, businesses, and supporters.
In addition to this, special donations were received in honour of Comrade Don Prentice, whose impact on the community continues to be felt. These contributions in his memory helped strengthen the program even further, supporting families during a time of year when help matters most.
Important community partners also make a tremendous difference each year, including:
The Salvation Army
The Giving Tree
Castleton United Church
CCC Plastics
Together, they provide food, toys, essentials, and support that ensure every hamper reflects dignity, care, and a sense of holiday hope.
Where the Magic Happens: Volunteers
Once donations arrive, volunteers get to work.
They sort food items, organize shelves, match toys to each child's age and needs, and assemble every hamper by hand. The energy in the room is unmistakable—busy, joyful, and full of purpose.
Every item placed in a hamper is done with intention. Every box packed reflects the kindness of neighbours helping neighbours.
Delivery Day: Bringing Joy to Doorsteps
Delivery day is where everything comes together.
Trucks, vans, and cars are loaded as volunteers head out across the community to deliver hampers to all 66 families. Each delivery brings more than food and gifts—it carries dignity, hope, and the warmth of knowing the community cares.
It’s often emotional, always meaningful, and a highlight of the season for everyone involved.
A Tradition That Shines Every Year
The Colborne Legion Branch 187 Christmas Hamper Program is a shining example of what community can achieve when people come together with compassion.
From Norma’s leadership, to the volunteers who give their time, to donors and partners who contribute so generously—including those who honoured the memory of Comrade Don Prentice—this program continues to brighten the holidays for families who need it most.
Heartfelt. Joyous. Community at its very best.
Enjoy our Christmas Hamper Sizzle Reel that outlines our journey.
Merry Christmas and all the best in 2026.
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