Tearful smiles fill the days of December as volunteers build, then hand out, Christmas hampers.

B次元官网网址淭he tears of joy are all we need and itB次元官网网址檚 makes it all worth while,B次元官网网址� said Gayle Ireland, West Shore Christmas Hamper Fund president.

The West Shore Christmas Hamper Fund gets into full swing Dec. 1, but volunteers need help.

B次元官网网址淐ash is great because we can get more for our money,B次元官网网址� said volunteer Sandy Prette, explaining the program purchases in bulk to get better deals.

Unwrapped gifts are also part of the hamper program. When parents come to pick up the hamper, they can select gifts suited for individual kids.

B次元官网网址淲e need presents for newborns up to 17-year-olds. Teenagers are the hardest to shop for,B次元官网网址� she said, suggesting wallets, watches, monogram T-shirts, scarves and cosmetics are good teen gifts.

Those aged 12 to 17 also get gift cards while the younger kids get a gift from Santa.

Last year the hampers served 1,001 adults and 506 children.

B次元官网网址淓very year we have more people requesting hampers. Many people out in the community just cannot afford it. Many people donB次元官网网址檛 want to ask for help but we are here for them,B次元官网网址� said Prette who also volunteers with the food bank. B次元官网网址�(Our clients) are so thankful to even have the hampers. They are something they wouldnB次元官网网址檛 normally get.B次元官网网址�

Volunteers hope to have the bulk of donations by Dec. 16, but accept last minute donations. Hampers will be distributed on Dec. 17, 18 and 19.

Donations for the West Shore Christmas Hamper Fund will be collected starting Dec. 1 the Goldstream Food Bank, 761 Station Ave., Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.