Christmas gift baskets bring cheer

James Bay Community Project

By Janessa Bate

As our calendars roll on into December, it is time to start thinking about the holiday season. This time of year can be a complex time for many people. While some look forward to time off from work or school to spend with family in celebration, others may find this season emphasizes their isolation or financial hardship.  At James Bay Community Project, we are aware of many parents in Victoria who can't afford to buy gifts or feed their children a Christmas dinner, because they are barely making ends meet. Also, it can be a lonely time for those who won't be able to spend time with their families or for those whose family members have passed on.

Fortunately, it is also a time of year when community members often look beyond their own concerns, and see how their compassion and generosity could benefit those in need. At JBCP, we appeal to you for food donations. Our wonderful volunteers use these donations to create packaged meals for seniors and youth gift baskets, for those who otherwise would not be able to have a seasonal meal.

In addition to food, we also welcome donations of anything that would be suitable for a holiday gift. Examples include (but are not limited to): children's toys, socks, soap, lotion, scarves, chocolates, magnetic note pads, note cards, stamps, pens, Thrifty's Smile Cards, coffee shop gift cards, gloves, 2013 date books or calendars, tea towels, or face cloths. Cash donations are also welcome, and will be used to purchase specific items for our clients.

Recipients of these gift baskets could include: young single parents, youth living in poverty, and isolated seniors who have difficulty getting around. A recipient from last year said, "Receiving the gift basket made me and my daughter feel so much better during the holidays. I was crying every day because I could not give her a nice Christmas like she deserves. Christmas time is sad for a lot of people, but at least we had each other, and I was happy that I could at least wrap a few gifts for her and we could have a turkey dinner."

Donations can be dropped off or mailed to the James Bay Community Project at 547 Michigan St, Victoria BC, V8V 1S5. We want to say a huge "thank you" to all our donors, supporters, and volunteers because we could never do it without you.

On a sad note, our long serving volunteer and community services  coordinator, Catriona Campbell is leaving us in December. We hope you will be able to join us in saying good bye to her on Wednesday, December 12^th at 3-5 p.m. at the Project.

From everyone at the James Bay Community Project, have a safe and wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year.