The holiday season is supposed to be a time to bask in the warmth of human companionship but not everyone will feel included. With Vancouver expecting a long, cold winter, any kind of aid is needed to help those who may be experiencing unhappy holidays.
Our own apathy may get in the way according to survey info collected by the Vancouver Foundation, a solid 27 per cent of interviewees felt that no matter what they did, it would not make a difference.
And the city doesnt seem to support community involvement either. A majority of young people between 25 and 35 years old feel alienated and lonely around this time of year.
So what can we do to reach out to our neighbours?
A number of organizations are making a difference, and they invite people to get involved. Union Gospel Mission on East Hastings provides food, shelter, and addictions services. Theyre expecting a surge of people looking for vacancy this winter, and they plan to open every nook and cranny for sleeping space, according to Union Gospels president, Bill Mollard.
The mission recognizes that loneliness is a big concern during this time of year, and they provide bus fare and long distance phone calls for residents who are far away from their families. A sense of community is developed around this time of year, added Mollard.
Another cause for concern is individuals who are unable to buy or cook food. A Loving Spoonful aims to provide AIDS/HIV survivors with the basic nutrition that some are unable to receive, by delivering goods right to their door. Executive director Lisa Martella says that theyve been running their Holiday Hamper program for at least six years, and people can help out by donating various food and hygiene products.
We make sure we know what our clients needs are, said Martella, adding that Christmas Eve and New Years Eve will be especially busy. Anybody looking to act as a driver on these busy days is encouraged to contact A Loving Spoonful.
Group support is vital during this period, and on Dec 18, the Canadian Memorial Church on Burrard in Kitsilano will be hosting a special communion devoted to moving through loss. The service is intended to help those in grief move on with their lives in the new year. The service begins at 7:30.
And finally, if committing to just one organization doesnt suit you, donating to the Vancouver Foundation will always help. The foundation funds and support a number of philanthropic projects and non-profit start-ups, including food co-ops and especially youth homelessness solutions.
Your time can always be spent supporting the community. Take the initiative and help your neighbours.
