The Deh Cho Friendship Centre in Fort Simpson is seeking donations for its annual Christmas hamper program. Large, gift-wrapped drop-off boxes have been placed in several locations around town. Non-perishable food is particularly welcome, according to executive director Aaron McNab.

The Friendship Centre will be receiving a helping hand from the Salvation Army in Yellowknife again this season. Forty turkey dinners are on the way, McNab said, but some of them will be distributed in Wrigley and Jean Marie River. Outside of that, and an annual donation from the Union of Northern Workers, the organization relies on generosity from the community.Last year, 85 hampers went to needy families and individuals, he said, adding that single-parent families and large families are atop the priority list.

"We always try to make sure that they're in need, they're low income," said McNab, adding that people can apply for a hamper themselves or can be recommended by others.

Youth involved in the Friendship Centre's various programming help to prepare the hampers.

Stacy Menicoche, 14, said she's happy to chip in "because I love to help all the little children."

This year's hampers are scheduled to be delivered next week. McNab said it's not uncommon for those who receive a hamper to later come into the Friendship Centre's open house to express their appreciation.

"We did get a couple of cards last year.

"They wrote us a little thank-you card," he said.

The Zhahti Koe Friendship Centre in Fort Providence runs a food bank year-round but the needs grow during the Christmas season, according to executive director Pashcalina Thurber. Fortunately, some volunteers have offered to go Christmas caroling in return for donations to the food bank, Thurber noted.

The Friendship Centre also hosts an elders Christmas dinner each year with donations from businesses and individuals. This year's dinner was to have been held on Wednesday.

In Fort Liard, the Acho Dene Koe First Nation also holds a Christmas feast.