What can I do to help?
Great question for this time of year
It's cold. It gets dark early. It stays dark late.
Heating costs a lot at this time of year but we all need to stay warm--even those who can't afford it.
Food costs a lot at this time of year but we all need to eat--even those who can't afford it.
'Tis the season and anyone who has children wants to give their kids a gift or two--even those who can't afford it.
People who have been having a hard time making ends meet will have an even harder time in the next few months so if you can help, they would appreciate it.
By they we mean all the groups and individuals who put together food drives, make up Christmas hampers, volunteer, collect coats, hats, mitts, food and so forth for others.
Groups like Christmas Cheer and the Powell River District Food Bank are two very worthwhile organizations that depend on the generousity of the community so they can help those who live here.
Donations of food, grocery items, gift certificates, new toys, gloves, mittens, and scarves are needed.
Christmas Cheer has a tree at Walmart where people can pick off a name and purchase a toy for a boy or girl.
The December 4 deadline is quickly approaching to "adopt a family," said Christmas Cheer president Sandra Carmen.
It's been a busy year and there are many families and individuals who need help.
Donations for Christmas Cheer can be dropped off at the home of Tom and Marilyn Lewis at 4229 Fernwood Avenue.
Gina Kendrick and her volunteers at the Food Bank helped more than 800 people in November. But they wouldn't have been able to do that without the support of the community.
"Shaw Cable brought us 6,132 pounds of food through their drive. They are amazing! They doubled all the donations that came in as part of their Canada-wide project," said a grateful Kendrick. Campbell's Soup was also in on that project; they doubled what Shaw did. "That was an incredible campaign. And Investors Group through their Harvest the Pearl campaign raised 3,500 pounds of food for the local food bank," she added.
Because of the drives, the food bank is able to supply a variety of food and grocery items to those in need.
Upcoming drives for the foodbank includes A Dickens Banquet, an event put on by the Laughing Oyster on December 3 and 4 at Dwight Hall. Dave Bowes and his crew always put together a fabulous evening of food and entertainment but they think of others at the same time which is why they encourage people to bring non-perishable food to the event. On December 11, people are encouraged to come on out and Fill the Bus with food for the Foodbank at Save-On-Foods.
"If anyone is able to donate money, we can always use it to purchase bulk items. We can give out receipts," said Gina.
To those who have already helped, thank you! And to those who plan to help others this year, thanks for your support.
