Pictured above: The RCMP of Fond du Lac First Nation along with Santa’s helpers before handing out the Christmas gifts to the children and youth.

Children from Fond Du Lac Denesuline First Nation, SK received their Christmas presents earlier, thanks to the great work of Santa’s helpers.

Due to the current pandemic and the extended lockdown, the residents of Fond Du Lac Denesuline First Nation had to spend the Christmas season indoors, just like everyone else. In order to bring joy and cheer up the children in the community, the Chief of Fond Du Lac First Nation, Louie Mercredi, worked with Athabasca Health Authority and the Northern store to carry out the Emergency Covid Christmas Gift Giving program.

Together, they managed to assemble gifts for about 378 children in the community. The Northern store was very happy to show its support with several gifts including toys, electronics and gift cards, at a total value of $3,000. The store staff worked until midnight to help get the toys together at the store, which were then brought to the Father Gamache Memorial School to be handed out.

Pictured above: Some of the gifts that were brought to the Father Gamache Memorial School in Fond Du Lac First Nation, SK

On December 17, Santa’s helpers, which included RCMP and community members, collaborated to distribute the gifts to all the kids in the community at their doorstep in just two hours!

“To us it’s very important to support the community and there’s nothing better than seeing children happy and smiling. They’ve been very brave staying at home and following the restrictions during this pandemic,” said Rasa Kanagaiah, Fond du Lac Northern Store Manager.