2020 was a very challenging year, but one thing that remained steadfast during the holiday season was our community’s commitment to take care of residents experiencing hard times. We didn’t know what to expect at Christmas.
For the first time, we asked for the community’s help in the spring to keep our essential services available to residents in need. We learned at that time that residents felt strongly about supporting SOS programs and helped us raise over $300,000 through our Grateful Hearts initiative.
In order to provide grocery store gift cards to residents in need at Christmas, we endeavoured to raise another $125,000. We also set out to fill our Toy Shop with new gifts for local children and youth. Again, the community did not disappoint. There were some bumps along the way that came with the changing provincial restrictions, but we got there because of you.
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Despite the year that we had, on Christmas morning, local children and youth woke up with excitement in their hearts and found something special under their tree just for them. Families and individuals were able to look forward to a good meal thanks to your kindness. And although 2020 was fraught with uncertainty and fear, our community created Christmas magic for our fellow residents and that is something we can all feel good about.
From all of us at SOS, we wish you a safe and healthy 2021.
Susanna Newton
SOS executive director