Christmas is the season of giving. Many people of Sault Ste. Marie will, in approximately one month, be enjoying family meals and exchanging gifts. A heightened state of happiness, laughter, joy, and a sense of support will spread throughout the community. Parents will be there for their children. Siblings will be there for each other. This is assumed, but not always the case. Many people do not have the social and financial resources that are necessary to be healthy. Too many children and youth fear homelessness on a daily basis. Too many people, in general, are homeless.
In response, Sault Rotaract – a Rotary Club partner comprised of young professionals that focus on community and international service – will be preparing holiday care packs for people living within local shelters. Over 70 backpacks were prepared and delivered last year, which was possible because of the generous support of many people throughout the Sault community. Rotaract aims to exceed that number this year and is asking for donations in the form of hygiene and personal care products (e.g., shampoo, body wash, deodorant, First Aid kits, etc.), entertainment materials (e.g., books, playing cards, magazines, etc.), and comfort products (e.g., socks, hats, mitts, blankets, etc.). Monetary donations are also being accepted and will be used to purchase the abovementioned items for the care packs. Any person that provides a donation of $20 or more will be eligible for a charitable receipt and Scotiabank will match ‘cash’ donations of up to $5,000.
All donations can be dropped off during business hours at Scotiabank within the Station Mall (293 Bay Street) or the “Zellers Plaza” (294 Great Northern Road), and at the Rotary Club office (364 Queen Street East) between 9:00am and 5:00pm from Monday to Friday. Donations can also be dropped off at the Rotary Club office on November 17th, during this year’s Moonlight Magic. Any contribution will be absolutely appreciated and viewed as an asset in terms of providing underprivileged people with items that are essential for protecting and promoting their health. By donating, you will help create a holiday packed with care for vulnerable and unique men, women, children and youth within of our community. Sault Rotaract hopes you’ll be there!
The deadline to drop off donations is Friday, December 9th, 2016. If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact Mike Storozuk by calling (705) 987-6563 or emailing [email protected].
