Time to reach out and help others
I have had the opportunity to meet with many social agencies during the past two weeks and have heard many stories of need within our community. This season is a time when people are encouraged to help others – either by making financial donations, assisting with making food hampers, adopting a family – the list is extensive and unfortunately, growing.
So, I thought I would list a few of the agencies who are needing assistance in our community and where the needs are – for me, it is always a time to really reflect on my good fortune and how important it is to reach out and help others.
Salvation Army: They are operating the fill a kettle campaign and they have their red kettles at Conestoga Mall and Fairview Mall. They require volunteers to stand at the kettles. But what they really require is your financial donations – so if you can, please make a donation and say hello to the volunteer standing there. The Salvation Army uses these donations to provide food and toys during Christmas time, as well as running all their programs throughout the year. For more information: www.salvationarmy.ca
Toy Drive: Waterloo and Kitchener Firefighters, along with the Waterloo Knights of Columbus are collecting new, unwrapped toys until December 20th. Toys can be dropped off at any Waterloo fire hall or Waterloo Regional Police Detachment as well as the Knights of Columbus on 145 Dearborn Place.
House of Friendship Food Hampers: Financial donations towards their Food Hamper program can be mailed or dropped off at the Erb and Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, On N2J 1P. Food can be donated at the House of Friendship, 63 Charles St., Kitchener or by calling 519-743-8327. You can also sponsor a family for $75.00
Annual Tree of Angels Campaign: The tree is in front of the Zellers Store at Conestoga Mall and is a partnership of The City of Waterloo, The Salvation Army, May Court Club, Waterloo Grand River Kin Family, Optimist International, Waterloo Chronicle, Conestoga Mall and 105.3 KOOL FM. They are looking for donations of new, unwrapped toys for children and teenagers. They would also appreciate financial donations.
The Food Bank of Waterloo Region: The need is very great this year and the Food Bank requires our support. You can make a financial donation by visiting their website and you can also make food donations at many locations around the Region – please visit their website for more information at : www.thefoodbank.ca
These are just some of the many worthy agencies in our community requiring our help. Please make giving to others a part of your holiday tradition. We can make such a difference in the lives of others.
