Hyggen hopes to see lights of compassion, generosity

By Lethbridge Herald on November 18, 2025.

Alejandra Pulido-Guzman
Lethbridge Herald

On Monday during the launch of the Christmas Hope Campaign, Mayor Blaine Hyggen lit up the Christmas tree that will be bringing the holiday spirit to City Hall. 

“The holidays are filled with laughter, joy and time spent with loved ones,” said Hyggen. “Yet we also recognize that this time of the year can also be quite challenging for many in our community.”

While not everybody has the same opportunities to celebrate, Hyggen said it is important to come together as a community to help those who are struggling during the holiday season. 

“That’s why today is more than just about the lights on the tree. It’s about shining a light of generosity and compassion.”

He said he and his fellow members of city council are proud to stand alongside the partners that joined forces to form the Christmas Hope Campaign. 

“Together they’ve continued the tradition of Christmas Hope now in their 19th year. Through this collective effort, thousands of families, let that sink in, thousands of families, will receive support and supplies to make their season brighter.”

Roughly 3,000 adults and 6,000 children will be impacted by the generosity of the rest of the community during the Chirstmas holidays because of it. 

“That impact is truly remarkable, and we encourage everyone to give what they can. Whether it’s time, donations or simply kindness to help lift each other up,” said Hyggen.

He pointed out that some of those folks are struggling throughout the year, but it becomes even more prominent during the Chirstmas holidays. 

“To have many groups come together to be able to help those in need is truly a blessing. And a huge part of our community are our seniors so it is great to have LSCO part of the Christmas Hope campaign this year.”

Hyggen said he has had residents reach out to him about the campaign and have expressed how thankful they are for such campaign to exist, as they would not otherwise been able to have presents for their children under the tree. 

“To me is just incredible to have organizations in our community that works so hard, and to be able to have them working together it’s pretty special for sure.”

He said that on itself shows the type of community Lethbridge is, as usually organizations work for their own benefit, but here during the Christmas holidays they come together and work as a team to benefit everyone who needs help. 

“I’ve never seen this type of work across the country. So that’s pretty cool to see how Lethbridge comes together when they need to.”