A Red Deer home bursting with holiday spirit, with over 150 decorated Christmas trees and an expanded Christmas village, is almost ready for visitors to help raise money for Central Alberta Humane Society.
Once again, Tom Kereluk and Vince Jackman are opening their home to the public for Sofia Celebrates Christmas tour, named in honour of their Chihuahua.
People can wander through their tree-filled home, at 42 Comfort Close, on Dec. 7, 8 and 14, from 12 to 3 p.m. Santa will also be on site to pose for photos with visitors.
Jackman said their Christmas village has grown thanks to donations of miniature decor, and ornaments purchased during a European vacation earlier this year will add some cultural flare to trees, including one tree that will be festooned with trimmings from Poland.
"A few of the trees haven't been seen. We're excited to showcase them," said Jackman, who is also president of the local Humane Society.
A recent trip to castles in England has inspired the addition of a tree to salute that country next year, he added.
The couple has collected thousands and thousands of decorations over the years. Some are retired to make room for new themed trees. If decorations aren't used for a few years, they are donated to the Humane Society's annual garage sale.
Jackman said last year, more than 230 people took Sofia's tour, and about $7,000 in money and pet food was raised.
This season, people are also encouraged to donate to the society's 2024 Giving Tree campaign. The Giving Tree's wish list includes essential items that directly support the care and well-being of over 600 animals who come through the shelter’s doors each year.
He said the campaign also helps educate the public about all the equipment and supplies the society requires to address the needs of homeless, abandoned, and neglected animals in Central Alberta.
"This year has been tough for us, just like all charities out there. We haven't had to cut any services. We've been able to keep going with what we have. But definitely, donations for the year were down, so we're hoping this Christmas season things will pick up for us."
Jackman encouraged people to visit the society's animal shelter.
"Experience what we have to offer. Come down and cuddle a cat. Join our volunteer team. If you are capable of having an animal, definitely look at adoption. We have some amazing animals in our shelter."
For more information visit Sofia Celebrates Christmas on Facebook.
