Community spirit alive and well

James Bay New Horizons

By Kim Dixon

Well they say that Spring has officially arrived but you wouldn't be able to tell by the weather!

What you can tell is that people are anxious to get out and about, as is evident in the programs and activities that have been happening at James Bay New Horizons.

Our Friendship Teas (held the first Monday of every month) are very well attended. We invite you to drop in for a cup of tea or coffee, some lively conversation and a chance to meet new friends. This month (June) the theme will be Intergenerational! We are very thankful to have the refreshments provided by Classic LifeCare this month.

What has brought me a warm heart is the way the community has supported two very important community events:

On May 15^th, James Bay New Horizons hosted a Scooter Parade. We are very appreciative to the City of Victoria (Chris Coleman and Alexander Angus) MediChair, CRD, Handi Dart for their support and dedication to making this event not only fun but educational.

The general public was able to understand the frustrations that people needing mobility assistance had to deal with driving their scooters on the narrow sidewalks, construction zones, etc. The scooter drivers were able to realize some of the frustrations pedestrians have to deal with when people on scooters come up behind them on sidewalks. Best of all, the City representatives were able to see first hand the conditions of the walkways and sidewalks of the James Bay area. In particular, the inability of Handi Dart to pick up clients because there is no easements considered other than driveways. Alexander has promised to look at what can be done to help with this problem and we look forward to seeing solutions soon.

On Saturday, May 19, we were delighted to host a Garage sale, BBQ and Book sale with the proceeds being donated to Chris Milan from the Bank of Montreal. Chris is a bank teller and always has a smile for his customers. Unfortunately, Chris was recently diagnosed with cancer.

Two local residents Jim and Don decided that something should be done to help ease the burden Chris has been forced to deal with. They canvassed the neighbourhood for donations, solicited businesses (Starbucks and Thrifty Foods) for donations towards the BBQ and in total almost $3,000.00 was raised. If you would like to help Chris, donations can be made at the Bank of Montreal. Many thanks also to Beckley Farm Lodge for the use of their BBQ.

Just goes to show that the Spirit of James Bay is alive!

On Saturday, June 23, James Bay New Horizons will be holding a community Bottle Drive. We hope that you will consider bringing us your refundable bottles on that day, All monies raised will be used to purchase equipment (chairs and podium). Our goal is $2,000.00 so we certainly hope you can help us to achieve our goal. Feel free to call the Centre (250) 386-3035 if you need to have your donation picked up.