Santa’s anonymous has enlisted rail power in its effort to boost its fundraising efforts, which officially kicked off on Monday (Nov. 23). The Santa train will depart from Jasper on Dec. 1 for two runs. The first train will leave at 9:30 a.m. and the second train leaves at 3 p.m.

“People can have photos taken with Santa, and it’s a really fun time for the whole family,” said Patti Pavlov, organizer of this year’s Santas Anonymous campaign.

“There is lots of room on the train, which can accommodate 125 people per trip.”

Pavlov said ticket sales are slow because people assume tickets are hard to come by. But that’s not the case.

“There is lots of room, so people should come down,” Pavlov said.

The train goes to Yellowhead, and offers a unique Christmas atmosphere.

Tickets for the train will be on sale on Nov. 27, 28 and 29 between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets are $5 for children, $10 for adults. The money goes to help families in need during the holiday.

Santas Anonymous donation boxes have also been placed throughout the community. The boxes accept toys and non-perishable food items.

Boxes have been placed at the Jasper Activity Centre, Seton Hospital, the Library, Jasper Elementary School and the Dollar Store. There will also be a ‘roving donation box’ that will appear at various community events, allowing the public greater opportunity to donate.

Donations for the Santas Anonymous campaign go to help families in need celebrate the holiday season. Food hampers, turkeys and toys are given before Christmas day. Last year, the program helped 76 families in Jasper.

Raffle items from the Christmas Craft Fair are still available. Winning ticket numbers will be posted in next week’s Fitzhugh.

For more information, contact Pavlov at 780-852-8322.