A Kipling town councillor has come up with a way to celebrate Christmas by giving back.

After pondering over a particular idea for a while, Makyla Stender, councillor for the Town of Kipling, decided it was time to present her idea to the rest of the council.

The idea was presented as a community program, Adopt a Family.

“It’s a really hard thing to get to the point to admit you need help, but this idea has been started just because there is someone else out there just wanting to bless your family,” explains Stender.

“I had seen it being done in the city and other communities and when I ran for council I thought that this is something that I’d like to implement. After doing some research and talking to a few people, I thought this would be a viable idea so I presented it to council.”

It was unanimous … everyone thought it would be a great idea.

“There is such a need in the community,” comments Stender. “People may not see it but it exists.”

“We don’t want anyone at Christmas to go hungry,” says Stender. “The thought of kids waking up Christmas morning with no gifts under the tree … that just doesn’t sit right with me. If I can do something about that, I’m going to. That’s where the idea of Adopting a Family came from.”

An application form is available for families who would like to adopt.

There is also a registration form for families who are recipients to fill out.

They will state on the form the ages of their children, their interests, and also if they have any food allergies.

Please refer to the Town of Kipling Facebook page for instructions on adopting a family or email Stender directly.

Everything remains completely confidential.

Stender will co-ordinate the dropoffs for the families who are recipients to ensure they will receive their package before Christmas.

“I have had such good response from people in the community wanting to Adopt a Family and take part,” says Stender, who adds, “it’s amazing.”

“I don’t want anyone to be missed out on the receiving end,” explains Stender.

Once someone has agreed to adopt a family, the donor will receive details on what ages to buy a gift for, their interests and food allergies the recipient may have in order to buy the ingredients for a Christmas meal. Drop off your items with Stender.

“I’m really excited about it. I’m just waiting on recipient families so I can match everyone up.”

“There shouldn’t be any embarrassment in admitting you may need help.”

A lot of people, at one time or another, have been in this same position.

Stender can’t stress enough that the confidentiality of this is of the most importance to her.

It’s hoped that registrations can be in by Nov. 29.

Deliveries will start to be made Dec. 17.

“I’m hoping this idea will continue year after year.”

Christmas isn’t the only time of year there’s a family in need.

If the adoptive family wishes to continue to do this on a monthly basis or otherwise, feel free to do so. It will be very much appreciated.

For more information on how to register as an adoptive family or recipient contact councilor Makyla Stender at mstendertok@sasktel.net or by phone 306-736-8955.