Stampede, United Way stage donation roundup
The Calgary Stampede and United Way of Calgary are partnering to collect basic essential items for Calgarians struggling to make ends meet during the COVID-19 pandemic
The #Unitedapart Basic Needs Round-up on Saturday aims to collect donations of personal hygiene items, cleaning supplies, personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves, grocery gift cards and other basic essentials, to give a leg up to Calgarians who have been financially affected by the pandemic. Those wanting to donate can register online for curbside pickup.
“We’re celebrating Calgary Stampede differently this year but our community spirit will continue through the #Unitedapart Basic Needs Round-up,” United Way of Calgary president Karen Young said Tuesday.
“We need to make sure we take care of each other through this difficult time. We’re known for our generous spirit in Calgary, and we support our neighbours in good times and bad.”
Dana Peers, president of the Calgary Stampede, said volunteers in Stampede-branded vehicles will be sent into the community on Saturday to pick up donations from the homes of those who register online.
“We’re certainly having a difficult time here at the Calgary Stampede but so are so many of the citizens of Calgary, and from our community partners we know that a lot of Calgarians are struggling to meet their basic needs,” said Peers.
“Our volunteers want to be involved in the community, they all have a desire to be out spreading Stampede spirit as well as community spirit throughout the week. The volunteers will enjoy this time they get to spend with the citizens of Calgary.”
They’re hoping people get decked out in their western wear to celebrate community spirit with the volunteers. The donations will be taken to Women In Need Society to be sorted and distributed to non-profit agencies that are helping Calgary’s most vulnerable through this challenging time.
People who wish to donate can register for pickup by Thursday at 11:59 p.m. at calgaryunitedway.org/united-apart/ and will be entered to win a VIP package for the 2021 Calgary Stampede. A list of items that can be donated is available on the website.
All WINS locations in Calgary will also be open to receive donations on Saturday.