It's that time of year when Coquitlam Centre has created holiday displays for visitors to enjoy and make memories with family.
For others, however, their holiday season will not be the way it used to be.
In an effort to help victims impacted by the B.C. floods, as well as low-income families with children in the region, the mall has organized a series of fundraisers at different Christmas themed stations across its 910,000 sq-ft. building.
This includes the return of Santa Claus to the Coquitlam facility to take festive pictures with kids.
Interested families who pay for a photo will see 25 per cent of all sales donated to the Red Cross British Columbia Floods and Extreme Weather Appeal.
"The Canadian Red Cross is working to get help to people in and around affected areas as quickly as possible and provide humanitarian assistance for new needs as they arise," reads a description of the fundraiser on Red Cross' website.
"Money raised will enable the Red Cross to carry out relief, recovery, resiliency and risk reduction activities in and beyond the region at the individual and community levels."
A Coquitlam Centre statement explains photos with Mr. Claus must be pre-booked online and are open until Dec. 24.
Additionally, the annual Toybank for SHARE Family and Community Services is back at the fifth-largest mall in B.C. as representatives are accepting unwrapped items and gift cards for children of all ages.
The non-profit is also hosting a gift wrapping kit fundraiser that features eco-friendly materials, a bag, tissue paper and tags.
"We’ve certainly done our best to create a little bit of holiday magic at the centre," said Coquitlam Centre spokesperson Megan Lee
"My particular favourite is the partnerships we have with SHARE Family & Community Services - the annual ToyBank is so important, and we’re glad we can do our part to make sure everyone gets a gift this holiday season. Above all else, we just hope that families and friends can experience the joy of our festive season this year, and of course, get all their shopping done!"
Visitors and guests are being asked to follow public health and safety protocols in place for indoor spaces across B.C. during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Those aged five years and older are required to wear a mask, except for eating or drinking.
More information about the holiday festivities and displays can be found on Coquitlam Centre's website.
