Every year our family takes time out to give back to the community in some way and this holiday season is no different. As a family, we have been very blessed, so we like to ensure that we share those blessings with others.
My children have been actively involved in donating their gently used books and toys to the Winnipeg Children’s Hospital for many years. Donations are taken through our local fire hall and it’s a great feeling to know that the toys and books that brought them joy are now bringing joy to children who don’t get to go home this Christmas.
As a member of JCI WInnipeg, I have proudly volunteered at a couple of local shelters, most recently the Siloam Mission. Previous to actual volunteering, I would just donate money, and I am so grateful that I have been taking the time out to donate my time over the past couple of years.
Siloam is a connecting point between the compassionate and Winnipeg’s less fortunate, Siloam Mission is a Christian humanitarian organization that alleviates hardships and provides opportunities for change for those affected by homelessness.
I think what makes volunteering and donating to Siloam so special is the personal connections I’ve had to some of the people who use the facility. Working in Human Resources for so many years has enabled me to meet a lot of people. When I volunteer at Siloam, it’s somewhat surprising and humbling to see a lot of those same people I may have hired or interviewed at one time.
This year has been very busy with my growing family and other life changes but that doesn’t mean I have stopped giving back. Instead of volunteering my time, I have gone through the Most Needed/Urgent Winter Needs list that Siloam requires, and I purchased a few things at the local Walmart in addition to some items I had at home and dropped off them off in person at the Siloam location in downtown Winnipeg. Knwing how cold our winters get, I focused on those types of items.
Would you love to donate some of those urgently needed items? Here are a few things they need!
- Sweatpants
- Longjohns
- Toques
- Gloves
- Boots
- Socks
- Laundry Soap
- Razors
- Deodarant
- Garbage Bags
- Feminine Hygiene Products
- Metal Hangers
- Food items
Speaking of food items, not only does our family support Siloam Mission, we also heavily support Winnipeg Harvest on an ongoing basis. The new development where we live usually has a “Tin for the Bin” drive with every event that is hosted within the community. Thankfully I work close by to the donation drop-off facility, so I can easily bring items there on a regular basis.
It’s important to acknowledge all of these organizations year-round and not just during the holiday season because we all know as poverty, homelessness , illness and hunger don’t take a break!
How do you give back to your community?
We also try to give year-round but recognize the extra-special need at Christmas!
We donate all year round but I think it is especially nice at Christmas!