Thinking about a Christmas With Dignity
Christmas is a time of giving; a time of good will towards others; a time of charity. As the snow begins to fall and we begin to see the signs of Christmas as the stores fill with trees and decorations, the meaning of Christmas begins to rumble within. Questions fill our minds of how to give. What is the best way to show generosity and goodwill this holiday season? We start to look around at the many worthy causes that are in desperate need. Before you decide, ask yourself… how can your donation go the furthest? How can your donation give someone dignity? What a profound gift that would be!
How exactly does Christmas With Dignity work? Quite simply, your donation isn’t a monetary value. It is the food on your neighbors table; it is the heat in your friend’s home, or the prescription filled for their child’s medication. Christmas with Dignity is truly a gift that keeps giving. Although Christmas is in the name, and the majority of the funds are used during the holiday season, donations can be accessed at anytime throughout the year in situations where families in the community need assistance with their basic needs. For example, this year funds were accessed to help purchase one month medication for a resident who could not afford them. Only one month was needed as we worked together to access resource to ensure that her medication was covered in the future. Outside resources are always sought out whenever possible to ensure that the request is more than a temporary solution. Requests are reviewed by a committee of 9 individuals to ensure the expenditure is warranted and prudent.
Christmas With Dignity is in its 5th year and has always been extremely successful. Last year Christmas With Dignity was able to raise over $20,000 of which approximately $17,000 was matched by the Alberta Government Community Spirit Grant and given to the Chestermere Food Bank. This year, we will be once again partnering with the Food Bank.
Donations can be made at the Community Services’ Reception at Town Hall. There will also be donation boxes at several locations in Chestermere. For more information or questions of how you can get involved in Christmas With Dignity, please call 403-207-7060.
