Calgary family builds wooden reindeer to spread cheer, raise money for homeless foundation
Posted Dec 9, 2021 6:37 am.
Last Updated Dec 9, 2021 6:38 am.
What started out as a math project, quickly turned into a way to spread holiday joy: a Calgary family is building and selling wooden reindeer with all proceeds going to a local charity.
“In Grade 5, I had a math project where I had to build something that was to benefit everyone or someone in my community, so I thought I’m going to build some reindeer,” explained Kerry Williams.
Three years later, Williams’ math project has turned into an annual family and community tradition, building and selling reindeer just before Christmas.
“We thought that was the end of it after the first year we donated some money to Inn from the Cold and the year after we built 16. Last year we built 30 and here we are this year with 100,” added Al Williams.
The Williams family started selling the reindeer on Dec. 1 and already sold half of the herd. If they sell them all, they’ll have raised $13,000 for Inn from the Cold. But it’s not just the Williams putting it all together.
“It’s moved from our family building these now to our friends and our community. The Kirby Centre cut out the ears this year. Our friends cut out the antlers and tails. We basically manufacture them right here,” said Al.
“There’s a little bit of chainsaw work in the faces so every one of them is different which makes them very unique, and some people spend hours choosing a reindeer. You know they like the eyes on one and the ears on another.”
The Williams sell the wooden animals right out of their backyard and have a goal of selling all of the reindeer by Dec. 17.
