The Christmas Bureau has been a part of Spokane's Christmas tradition since 1945. Each year from the day after Thanksgiving through December 31st, the Spokesman-Review solicits donations from businesses and individuals for the Christmas Bureau Fund. Donors make their contributions directly to the Spokesman-Review. Those funds purchase toys for children and provide food vouchers and books for needy families who come to the Christmas Bureau, which runs for ten days each December at the Spokane Interstate Fairgrounds Agricultural Building (404 N. Havana).
Christmas Bureau recipients are self-selected. All are welcome, and there are no income specifications. Each address is served one time. All adults served must bring photo ID and proof of address (current utility bill, phone bill, or rent receipts are best). Proof of dependents (all children 17 and under) is required. A letter from their school, or a letter from a non profit agency confirming the number and ages of dependents work best. Documentation is needed to show that the children live with the adult(s) wishing to obtain vouchers and toys for the children.
Catholic Charities Spokane and Volunteers of America manage and operate the Christmas Bureau. Together, more than 300 community volunteers are scheduled, receive a background check, are trained, and welcome families to help make the Bureau run smoothly.
If you would like to volunteer at the 2011 Christmas Bureau
please call Brigid Krause at 358-4270 or email her at bkrause@ccspokane.org
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