As a single parent of four, Charlotte (named changed to protect identity) understands the anxiety that can come when trying to meet Christmas expectations while also attempting to create a joyful holiday season for her family.
“The stress of doing all the shopping myself as a single parent, it’s a lot,” she said.
For several years, Charlotte has found comfort in knowing she can access the SOS Caring for Community at Christmas program, relieving financial stress and helping her enjoy the season.
The SOS Caring for Community at Christmas program provides gifts for local children and youth in low-income families so they can find something special under the tree Christmas morning. Parents, caregivers and grandparents can choose special gifts for children and youth in the SOS Toy Shop. Families and individuals receive grocery store gift cards so they can choose food that is important to them over the holidays. The program also works with the Qualicum Beach Newcomers Club to provide Christmas stockings to seniors who are shut-in or without close friends or family.
“The grocery gift card was hugely helpful to buy stuff for Christmas dinner,” she said. “And leading up to Christmas as well. I think that was the best part.”
Charlotte described her experience at SOS as absolutely wonderful, highlighting the friendliness of the staff and volunteers, and the positive feelings she has when she leaves. “It’s a really uplifting experience and a bit emotional at the end of it when you walk out of there and you don’t have to worry for the season.”
Liam (also a pseudonym) agrees. He accessed the SOS Christmas program last year when he was struggling to make ends meet. He said everyone seems to be struggling these days and it’s reassuring to know there is somewhere to turn to help make Christmas special for your children.
He was able to find just what his daughter wanted in the SOS Toy Shop last year, some Lego and the Squishmallow toy she requested.
Liam expressed his gratitude toward SOS and the donors who made the program possible.
“Thank you so much for your generosity, it means a lot to a lot of people.”
SOS is working to raise $285,000 to meet the needs of residents this Christmas and into the winter. Donations of new, unwrapped gifts will help fill the SOS Toy Shop where parents and grandparents in need can shop for free.
To learn more about the SOS Christmas program, or to make a financial donation, visit www.sosd69.com, or call 250-248-2093. Drop in to the SOS Community Services Centre in Parksville with a gift or financial donation during business hours, attend an event that benefits the program, or locate an SOS Angel Tree at a participating business.
