When neighbours come together, good things happen, especially during the holiday season.
And for those planning ahead, now is the time to register for the Caring Neighbour's program, which matches sponors with people needing a bit of extra help this season.
“We have a Nov. 30 deadline so we can get get everyone matched. It allows us to do the best possible match,” said Claire MacLean, executive director of Share Family and Community Services, which runs the program.
MacLean said Caring Neighbour is a wonderful way to get to know people in your community while also helping out those who could use a little extra a boost during the holiday season.
Families, faith groups, businesses and schools wishing to provide a personal touch in choosing gifts and food for many Tri-City low-income families can register to sponsor a family through the Caring Neighbour program.
Typically, sponsors provide a food hamper as well as gifts for each member of the family. They usually drop off the basket at the family’s home and get to know the people they are sponsoring.
“We hear a lot of really great stories from this program,” said MacLean, recalling how one Second World War veteran and his wife registered each year to sponsor a family because it was a way of giving back.
“He remembered how difficult the holiday season was during war time and it was their way of making sure nobody saw that level of scarcity," she told The Tri-City News.
Another group purchased gifts and food for a refugee family and was unsure how it would be received, given the cultural differences.
“The family welcomed them and they shared tea. It was a very lovely exchange,” MacLean said, adding, “It really lets people reach out of their regular circles, help their neighbour and connect with the community.”
Last year, 217 households were sponsored by 140 individuals and groups through the Caring Neighbour program.
Here are other ways you can help during the Christmas season:
• Share seeks volunteers to help with the gift wrap program at Coquitlam Centre mall, which runs Dec. 1 to 24 during mall hours. Shifts are three hours long and those interested can call Hayley at 604-529-5107.
• Cash donations are appreciated this time of year to support programs run by Share Family and Community Services. Tri-City residents will soon receive a Share Joy Giving Guide in the mail to provide information about programs that support seniors, children, youth and families. Find out more at www.sharesociety.ca
