How can Santa Claus deliver presents to all the good boys and girls without a sleigh?

JCI Kootenay wants to answer that question, by kicking off the Santa Needs a New Sleigh Campaign.

For the last seven years, JCI Kootenay has run the Santa Claus Parade in Cranbrook, bringing together thousands of residents to see jolly Saint Nick travel through the downtown core. The Santa Claus Parade is also a huge benefit to the community by raising money for our local food bank. In 2013, over $3,700 was raised!

Obviously, for Santa and his wife Mrs. Claus to wave to the onlookers, they need a comfortable sleigh to sit in. This is also JCI Kootenay’s responsibility, as we organize Santa’s float every year by borrowing necessary supplies to build one. These decorations were donated years ago though, and are in rough shape. Essentially, Santa’s float is nonexistent, but that doesn’t mean Christmas is cancelled!

As the state of the current sleigh is unbecoming of the respect Kris Kringle demands, JCI Kootenay wants to build a brand new long term float in time for the 2015 parade. To achieve the goal, we need to raise some funds to cover the cost. Our objective is to raise $25,000 in two months (from November 1 to December 31).

We believe this project is very important to the community, and we have already pledged $5,000, leaving a remaining amount of $20,000 to be raised. To show our appreciation of your generosity, your name or company logo will be featured on one of the float’s snowflakes for a five year term for any donation over $500.

If you would like to “Support the Clause” and donate, visit our campaign site at www.youcaring.com/supporttheclaus. Donations can also be dropped off at the Bedroom Furniture Galleries, or you can contact [email protected].

Don’t forget, this year’s Santa Claus Parade is this Friday, nov. 28, in downtown Cranbrook.

JCI Kootenay

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