About Us

CFAX Santas Anonymous Society is one of Greater Victoria’s longest running children’s charities, working diligently to serve families with children in need.

 

We're here to help

Our goals are accomplished through the funding, operation, and delivery of our Christmas Hamper and Children's Grants programs, and supported by a caring and devoted volunteer base.

Santas Anonymous is led by our Executive Director, Christine Hewitt, who oversees all of our operations. She is supported by the 11 members of our board of directors, and hundreds of volunteers who do everything from contacting families and wrapping gifts to picking up donations and delivering hampers. Some of our volunteers have been with the Society for over three decades, and every year we are joined by new faces.

Last–but not least–is Santa Bear, our very own mascot! Throughout the year, you’ll find him bring joy and cheer to children across Greater Victoria.

Our History

What started with one woman and a box of toys in the 1970s has become Greater Victoria's most trusted children's charity.

1970s

A Basement Full of Hope

Marilyn Cann began quietly collecting toys in her basement, hoping to bring a little joy to families in her community during the holiday season.

1977

CFAX Santas Anonymous Is Born

Marilyn reached out to Mel Cooper, then owner and general manager of CFAX 1070 radio. Together, they grew the effort into something much larger and CFAX Santas Anonymous Society was born.

2013

Leaving Your Legacy: The Cooper Cann Fund

Established through the Victoria Foundation in honour of our founders, Mel Cooper and Marilyn Cann. The fund covers administrative costs so more donor dollars go directly to children and families.

Today

The Christmas Program

Every child registered receives two gifts: one chosen by parents from the Virtual Tree of Wishes, and a second hand-picked by volunteers in Santa's workshop. Families also receive three bags of groceries and a $150 local grocery gift card to bridge the gap when school meal programs pause.

Today

Kids Count: Supporting Kids Beyond Christmas

Year-round comfort gift boxes reach children facing hardship through trusted local partners. The Special Grant Program supports schools, daycares, food banks, and community organizations. In 2026, $70,000 in comfort gift boxes and $330,000 in special grants were distributed.

Mel Cooper, former CFAX owner and longtime Santas Anonymous president
In Memory

Mel Cooper 1932 – 2025

When Marilyn Cann's media sponsor backed out in 1977, she turned to Mel Cooper, owner of CFAX 1070. He said yes, and the charity has been tied to the radio station ever since. Mel served as president for 30 years, growing it from a small Christmas drive into Greater Victoria's most trusted children's charity. A recipient of the Order of Canada and the Order of British Columbia, he was also a force behind Expo 86 and the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Victoria.

We're entering our 48th year of CFAX Santas Anonymous thanks to Mel.

Our Mission

A trusted community of volunteers and donors creating positive change for local children and families, all year long.

Our Vision

Create a better tomorrow by supporting local children in need today.

Our Values

Respect. Transparency. Compassion. Everything we do is guided by these values and by the joy of giving back.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I donate?

You can donate online through our Ways to Give page, by phone at (778) 561-1070, or by mail to 721 Vanalman Avenue, Suite 201, Victoria, BC V8Z 3B6. We accept one-time and recurring donations, securities, and corporate gifts.

How can I volunteer?

Visit our Volunteer Portal through the Get Involved menu to register. We need help year-round, but our busiest season runs from October through December when we prepare and deliver Christmas hampers.

What is Kids Count?

Kids Count is how our work continues long after the holiday season ends. It includes comfort gift boxes delivered year-round to children facing hardship, and the Special Grant Program which provides vital support to local organizations, schools, daycares, and food banks. It helps reduce waitlists and fill service gaps across Greater Victoria.

How do I apply for a Christmas hamper?

Families in Greater Victoria can apply for a Christmas hamper through our Christmas Hamper Program page. Applications typically open in the fall each year. Contact us for current availability.

Is CFAX Santas Anonymous a registered charity?

Yes. CFAX Santas Anonymous Society is a registered Canadian charity. Our charity number is 888674249RR0001. All donations are tax-deductible and receipts are issued for donations of $20 or more.

Where does my donation go?

Donations directly fund our core programs: the Christmas Program, which delivers gifts and groceries to families during the holidays, and Kids Count, which supports children year-round through comfort gift boxes and special grants to local organizations, schools, and food banks.

Every dollar reaches a child. Every hour matters.

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