Chestermere, AB – Christmas with Dignity, a basic needs fundraising campaign that helps local individuals and families in Chestermere and South East Rocky View, is beginning again for the 2016 holiday season.
“We are very pleased to kick off the Christmas with Dignity campaign for 2016,” says Danielle Fermin, this year’s coordinator. “We hope that all residents will consider getting involved and support those in need during this holiday season.”
Community contributions to this fund have been integral in helping families who need a little extra support. While the fundraising campaign runs during the holiday season, the donations allow families to access support any time during the year. This support has taken the form of turning the heat back on during cold winter months; paying for household repairs in order to make a home more accessible for wheelchairs (even after using provincial funding); providing gift cards for school supplies; helping guardians and parents of young children who need childcare supplies; providing extra support to the annual Christmas Hamper program; and offering other types of assistance to families in need.
For the past nine years, these stories of hope have only been possible by the generosity of community residents. We encourage those who are able to give back to consider doing so again this year.
Here are a few ways you can give back:
Sharing information about Christmas with Dignity with your neighbours, friends, and family. If you or someone you know is in need of social support resources, contact the Community Resource Centre at 403-207-7079 or HYPERLINK “mailto:crcinfo@chestermere.ca” crcinfo@chestermere.ca.
Making a monetary donation (cash, credit, cheque, gift card) to the fund. Cheques can be written to the City of Chestermere, with ‘Christmas with Dignity’ in the memo. Donations over $20.00 are eligible for a tax receipt.
Dropping off new or gently used items December 8, 2016 to be used in the Children’s Christmas Store fundraiser. Collection bins are located at Chestermere Public Library, City Hall, and Waiting Room Café.
Dropping off new, unwrapped toys for children and youth at Chestermere Station Dentistry by December 17. These toys will be delivered to families receiving a Christmas Hamper.
Donating an item to the silent auction.
Volunteering your time and assisting with Christmas with Dignity activities.
Sponsoring an activity (Christmas with Dignity Café, Santa’s Workshop, Rudolph’s Refreshment Station, Children’s Christmas Store, Volunteer Station, etc.) at the Christmas with Dignity Celebration Event on December 10.
Attending the Christmas with Dignity Celebration event on December 10 from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at City Hall and the Chestermere Public Library. Participants will enjoy an array of activities including the Children’s Christmas Store and local musical performances.
The 2016 Christmas with Dignity fundraising campaign takes place from November 18, 2016 to January 6, 2017. For more information, visit HYPERLINK “http://www.chestermere.ca/cwd” www.chestermere.ca/cwd or call (403) 207-8152.
