91原创

But failing that, a helping hand makes ill woman's season happier

For years, Pat Patterson received forms allowing her to apply for the Times 91原创 Christmas Fund. "But I was usually able to get by and never wanted to do that," explained the 56-year-old, who lives on social assistance.

Four-year-old Carlos Caicedo loves Christmas, Canada and Spider-Man. Carlos was born in Victoria to parents who came here from Bogot脙隆, Colombia, four years ago with next to nothing, knowing barely a word of English.

Year after year, the same people -- often seniors -- come into Barclay's Fine Custom Jewellers on Oak Bay Avenue to donate to the Times 91原创 Christmas Fund.

Thursday gig at Irish Times Pub to benefit Times 91原创 fund

The Times 91原创 Christmas Fund depends on donations large and small to make the season brighter for so many in need -- more than 2,300 households last year.

Jennifer Myra and her four young children will likely spend Christmas Day in the bachelor apartment they rent in a Gorge Road motel, with holiday cheer provided by donors to the Times 91原创 Christmas Fund.

Here's what the Garth Homer Society's clients, people with developmental disabilities, have been up to lately: playing Santa for needy families, funding a Christmas party at Kiwanis House, buying booties for a lame horse and supplying disabled Africa

Pancakes and syrup with the Man in Red will go a long way to making Christmas sweeter this year for Times 91原创 Christmas Fund recipients.

Every kid knows Santa brings the presents. But at Chateau Victoria, Santa and his Missus also bring out the pancakes. Today, at Chateau Victoria's Vista 18 restaurant, Mr. and Mrs.