Strathcona Christmas Bureau urgently seeking heated depot space in Sherwood Park

The Strathcona Christmas Bureau is making an urgent appeal for a temporary heated depot space in Sherwood Park as it prepares for its 2026 Christmas campaign.

The volunteer-run organization is seeking 8,000 to 10,000 square feet of heated space with washrooms, parking, and preferably an overhead door or loading dock. The space is needed from October 1 to December 31, with October 15 the latest workable move-in date. The bureau is open to discussing rent or other arrangements if donated space is unavailable.

"We've been incredibly fortunate over the years to have local property owners and businesses work with us to provide space," said bureau chair Jodi Powell. "This year we've been searching for months, and despite reaching out to numerous property owners, businesses and leasing agents, we still haven't been able to secure a suitable location."

The bureau, which has supported local families, seniors, and individuals facing hardship for 47 years, served approximately 1,650 people last year — including 500 children and 300 teens. The organization expects demand to increase this year.

"Finding a building isn't simply about somewhere to store boxes," Powell said. "For those few months, it really does become our Santa's workshop, a place where donations come in, volunteers come together, and everything is sorted, packed and prepared for Christmas. It's the heart of everything we do."

The bureau is asking property owners, developers, businesses, leasing professionals, and residents to share any potential leads. "We know the right space is out there somewhere," Powell said. "At this point, even a lead or an introduction could make all the difference."

Anyone with information can contact Jodi Powell at scbchair2026@gmail.com or 780-690-3584.