Empty Stocking Fund: High fliers make 700 hampers over 23 years

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The employees at TuGo Travel Insurance have become holiday hamper pros, making not just one, but hundreds over two decades.

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Since 2002, TuGo workers have made more than 700 hampers that provide food and gifts for families through Westcoast Family Centres’ hamper program. The community organization receives support from The Province’s Empty Stocking Fund.

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TuGo learned about the hamper program after reaching out to Westcoast Family Centres to ask how they could help, said Jodie Weiler, a senior manager at the Richmond-based company. That led to a tradition involving dozens of employees and a hamper assembly party in early December.

“The hamper program was one of the highlights of our year, as all employees were put on teams to shop individually, then assemble hampers for Westcoast Family Centre together at the office,” said Weiler. “The decorations were extravagant, with flashing lights, antlers and candy canes extending out from the boxes.”

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Before COVID-19, the company made about 25 to 35 hampers each year. But in recent years, with about 93 per cent of the company’s 120 employees working remotely, that number is closer to six to 10.

Last year was an exception. The company, which was founded in Richmond by Herb and Georgina Robinson in 1964, decided to go all out and make 60 hampers to celebrate its 60th anniversary.

This Christmas about 36 staff contributed to make seven hampers, which were delivered to Westcoast Family Centres earlier this month.

The hampers included various items, sometimes based off of a “wish list” provided by the recipient family. Staff added sweaters, coats, shoes, puzzles, kitchen items, hot cocoa mix, gift cards, gloves and toys.

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Rajan Manhas, communications manager at Westcoast Family Centres, called the holiday hamper program “a lifeline for families during one of the most financially and emotionally challenging times of the year.”

“Many of the families we serve are navigating significant hardships, such as escaping vulnerable situations, adjusting to life in Canada or coping with economic stress,” he said.

The Empty Stocking Fund plays a critical role in sustaining the hamper program.

“Contributions provide the financial flexibility we need to purchase essential items and fill gaps when demand exceeds expectations. This support ensures that no family is left behind, even in years when requests surge,” he said.

The fund also enables the organization to add additional grocery gift cards to ensure families have a holiday meal.

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Weiler said that while TuGo staff don’t ever meet the hamper recipients directly, they often hear snippets of their stories.

“Those moments are incredibly touching and remind us why we do this,” she said. “Knowing that our hampers can bring a bit of joy during the holiday season is truly meaningful.”

She said it’s important to find ways to give back to the community around the holidays.

“It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of it all, so this initiative helps us slow down and find time to give back to the community in a fun, meaningful way.”

For more than 100 years, The Province’s Empty Stocking Fund has helped make the holidays brighter for less-fortunate families throughout B.C. With the generosity of our readers and supporters, the fund sponsors 25 community groups that provide food hampers and gifts to kids, families and individuals.

Donations can be made online at theprovince.com/esf or by phone by calling 604-253-6911.

gluymes@postmedia.com

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