Don’t forget those left out in the cold!

By Nerissa McNaughton

Life between Thanksgiving and Christmas is a whirl of activity. We see more of our families, we delight in finding gifts for our friends and we bundle up as the weather goes from blissful fall to winter wonderland.

But it’s not a time of joy for everyone.

Many people across Alberta have been hit hard by the recession, and Whitecourt is no exception. With a shortage of jobs and the cost of goods and services on the rise, many have to make a choice between spending money on nourishing meals or on buying warm winter clothing for their growing children. The paycheck just doesn’t stretch as far as it used to.

There’s also the issue of homelessness in our community and those in need of emergency shelter.

As we celebrate the winter season, let’s not forget the need in the Whitecourt community. Please take a few moments to donate your children’s outgrown winter coats and boots, pick up an extra can of soup for the food bank, or donate a blanket to a shelter. A few minutes of your time makes a world of difference for those in need.

Wellspring Family Resource and Crisis Centre (whitecourtshelter.ca): is in need of basic care items, clothing and small household items. Larger items, such as toys and bedding, along with clothing, are accepted at Wellspring’s Twice is Nice second hand store (shelter clients access Twice is Nice for free).

Whitecourt Food Bank (780-778-6300): Food Banks Canada reports that increasing demand is straining Canadian food banks. Every donation helps! The most needed items include: pasta, canned and frozen meat, peanut butter, canned soup, dairy products, baby formula, canned fruit and vegetables,  whole grain cereals, personal hygiene products, toilet paper and diapers.

Tennille’s Hope (www.tennilleshope.com): Donate online or bring a donation to this soup kitchen during operational hours (Wednesday and Friday 11:00am – 1:30pm, and Monday during winter months).

Community Lunch Box (www.communitylunchbox.ca): Did you know just $30 helps CLB feed a student for a whole month? Visit www.communitylunchbox.ca/how-you-can-help to see how you can get involved with CLB.

Lorne’s Blanket (located in the rear of the Whitecourt Family Worship Centre): Fresh food, paper towel, coffee-mate and hygiene items for men are gratefully accepted. Please call 780-778-2572 to learn the current donation needs and/or drop your donations off at the church Monday-Friday.

These are just some of the charitable organizations in Whitecourt that need the community’s help. Please take the time to make a difference. It may not seem like much for you to give $5 or a warm pair of gloves, but to those in need, the difference is life changing.

Thank you for your generosity.

If your charitable organization has a pressing need, or if you would like to discuss an upcoming fundraiser, food drive or other community-focused event, please contact Whitecourt Press.