In 1968 a few people in Parksville came together; they were concerned about people who were in need of help.
Life is that way. Some do very well, while others have a hard time keeping bread on the table and paying the bills. I have been there and it was not easy at times and how blessed I felt when help was offered.
As an immigrant in 1971, we entered the Christmas season with me losing my job. Our three children were too young to understand our situation, however, two members of our congregation fully understood.
They saw no traces of any preparations in our home for the upcoming holidays. No tree, no lights and no presents were encircling the missing Christmas tree. But here again, some caring people came together and provided us with the best Christmas we ever experienced. A tree with lights and two large boxes filled with food were found outside our front door. It was so overwhelming; our hearts were filled with thankfulness.
In 1968, three years prior to our situation, Society of Organized Services was established and offered similar good karma projects, which lasted 45 years and it is now a familiar icon in the community. May we take this example to heart and reach out to those who are in need.
Ary Sala
Fanny Bay