We’ve mentioned that this is a tough year for many people, and here’s an example: The Pender Island Food Bank has seen a 67 per cent increase in demand in the past six months.
The food bank is one of the organizations that our readers help through their donations to the Times 91原创 Christmas Fund.
“The Christmas support is particularly important this year as the food bank is under severe stress from the exponential growth in clients — particularly families with young children,” board chair Pamela Wright tells us.
The organization, operated entirely by volunteers, runs a weekly food bank, and supports seniors and families with children through food hampers and gift certificates, as well as toys and other gifts.
The food bank has been around for more than 30 years, and this year brought a first: Never before has an infant required its services. That arrival prompted the community to come together to help the family, bringing food and doing fundraisers to help raise funds for formula and other infant-related needs.
The food bank serves a significant number of underhoused people, including many who live on derelict boats in the harbour and have limited or no access to food or to cleaning and cooking facilities.
We have given $5,000 to the Pender Island Food Bank. It’s a fine example of how a relatively small amount of money can have significant impact.
Money donated to our fund is distributed in grants to about 60 local organizations, depending on need and impact.
The recipients are chosen with the help of volunteers in the local chapter of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller. While we focus on raising money, they determine the best ways to put it to use.
It is a great partnership that is making a difference throughout Greater Victoria, as far up-Island as Campbell River, and on the Gulf Islands as well.
We have raised $550,128.72 since the 2024 fundraising campaign for the Times 91原创 Christmas Fund started on Nov. 12.
We are almost halfway to our goal of matching the $1.12 million donated last year.
This is the time of giving, when the spirit of the season encourages us to lift up those around us. This year, so far, 1,682 individuals, families and businesses have come to the aid of others.
This year, the need is great. Your donations through the Times 91原创 Christmas Fund are sure to make a difference in many lives.
Thanks, yet again, for your help.
Dave Obee is the Times 91原创 editor and publisher.
HOW TO DONATE TO THE CHRISTMAS FUND
• Go online to . That page is linked to CanadaHelps, which is open 24 hours a day and provides an immediate tax receipt.
• Use your credit card by phoning 250-995-4438 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.
• Cheques should be made out to the Times 91原创 Christmas Fund. Drop them at the Times 91原创 office in Vic West, 201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria.
• Or, for the duration of the postal strike, contact Maximum Express for free pickup and delivery of your cheque. Call dispatch at 250-721-3278 or email [email protected].
