Rooted in our community
The Medicine Hat News Santa Claus Fund is a charitable organization serving Southeast Alberta. We support children, families, and individuals in need during the holiday season.
Our organization was established in 1986 by the Medicine Hat News. The organization saw a need in our community during the holiday season, and they wanted to assist. Now, 38 years later, we can say we’ve helped 10,000s of families in our community which warms our hearts.
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The Medicine Hat News Santa Claus Fund brings the spirit of community and message of hope to children and families in need.
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The Medicine Hat News Santa Claus Fund is well recognized as the go-to organization for providing the “Spirit of Giving” to all children and families.
Our organization is 100% funded by sponsors. We have one employee, our fine Executive Director, and other than that we are dependant on the amazing volunteers that come out year after year to assist families in need.
The people behind the giving
Memorial
In memory of Mike Hertz, long-term Board Member of the Medicine Hat News Santa Claus Fund. Mike was a dedicated volunteer and board member for 25 years. He enjoyed the opportunity to be active in making decisions on how to give local families, especially children, a better Christmas as well as helping people throughout the year. Mike’s commitment and passion for our organization will be missed for years to come.
Executive Director
I believe that I truly have the best job in the world! Not only do I get to work alongside our many wonderful volunteers, but I also have the privilege of surrounding myself with our many generous community contributors and best of all assist in making Christmas brighter for many local children and families. Christmas is my favourite holiday, and there is no better feeling in the world than waking up on Christmas morning and knowing that together we’ve played a small part in ensuring that those less fortunate in our community have experienced the true “Spirit of Giving.”
Board Member
As a board member, supporting the Santa Claus Fund is one of the most meaningful commitments I make each year. This program represents the very best of our community that show up with compassion, generosity, and the belief that every child deserves to feel joy during the holiday season.
The Santa Claus Fund reminds us that even small acts of kindness can make a lasting impact. When we come together to ensure families have gifts under the tree and moments of happiness to share, we’re doing more than giving presents we are The Spirit of Giving .
Board Member
Kerri has been involved with the Medicine Hat News Santa Claus Fund for nearly 18 years. Each season the dedication of the board, the hundreds of volunteers and the generosity of the donors continue to amaze her. She believes they are a community working together to make the Christmas season brighter for children and their families.
Board Member
Cassie is a new member of the board. After spending more than a dozen years promoting various Santa Claus Fund events like the Toy Run on 105.3 ROCK, she’s excited to get more involved with the organization. Cassie loves the community spirit behind the Santa Claus Fund and knows how it ensures that every family can experience the magic of Christmas.
Board Member
Jason joined the Board in 2019. He is very grateful to be able to be involved with a local organization like the Medicine Hat News Santa Claus Fund that does so much for families in need at Christmas. He appreciates that all monies raised stay in our local area. He remembers helping his late father Mike with delivering hampers and was touched by how much it means to so many people locally. He says he is honoured to have the privilege to serve on the board and looks forward to many years serving our community.
Board Member
Amber loves to ensure that not only her children but all children in the community get to experience the full spirit of the holiday. That’s what she loves the most about the Santa Claus Fund, knowing that thanks to the generosity of wonderful people, families and kids in our community get to celebrate the holidays despite the frustrations that life may bring..
Board Member
Destinee started volunteering on Medicine Hat News Santa Claus Fund Board after many years of being employed at Medicine Hat News. After just a short period of time, she realized she wanted to be involved with the outstanding, selfless group of members and volunteers.
Board Member
I chose to serve on the Board of the Medicine Hat News Santa Claus Fund because I believe there is something incredibly special about a community coming together to make sure families don’t feel forgotten, especially during the holiday season.
What I love most is seeing that generosity in action. Our organization is powered by sponsors and volunteers who believe that every child and family deserves to experience a little hope, kindness and joy at Christmas. Being part of our events, where you can truly feel the community spirit, makes you realize you’re part of something bigger than yourself.
One of the most meaningful parts for me is volunteering during our Christmas intake. Seeing families receive gifts and food vouchers is a powerful reminder of why this organization matters. It’s about easing a little of the financial pressure, giving children something to look forward to, and reminding families that their community cares.
Board Member
Board Member
There’s a place for you here
The Santa Claus Fund relies almost completely on volunteers to help us service hundreds of families each year. These volunteers collectively contribute thousands of hours in order to make the work of our organization a reality.
If you are interested in volunteering this holiday season, please call or text us at 403-528-9900. We are always looking for groups, clubs and organizations who can volunteer some hours to help families in need.
Get involved
