Let’s make this a wonderful time for everyone

The days are getting shorter, we’ve had to turn on the heat in our homes, but still, there is a glimmer of hope in the air. It’s getting close to Christmas, a time for all of us to celebrate and think happy thoughts.

All of us? Not really. For too many people on Vancouver Island, Christmas can be a sad, painful time. There might be too many mouths to feed or illness or the loss of employment, not to mention separation from loved ones.

Some of our neighbours need a helping hand this Christmas — a helping hand from those of us who have the ability to make this a more festive season for all.

That is why the Times Colonist is once again offering a way for readers to give back to the community, through the annual Christmas Fund.

Since 1956, this newspaper has been collecting money to benefit the less fortunate.

We have raised and distributed millions of dollars over the years, and the success of the annual campaign is a direct result of the community’s generosity.

Sixty-one years ago, the Daily Colonist made a commitment with its 500 Fund to help the 500 neediest families in the area. Over time, the community’s needs multiplied, so we expanded the fund to offer help to more people. It became known as the Thousand Fund, and then the Christmas Fund.

We are accepting donations now, and will work again this year with the Salvation Army and the Mustard Seed Street Church, which handle the distribution of hampers and gift certificates to those in need. Our support makes possible the Mustard Seed’s annual Christmas dinner, which provides a warm meal to more than 1,000 people.

We are also providing financial help to Our Place.

We all have a shared goal of giving as many people as possible a better Christmas season.

Last year, the Times Colonist distributed almost $294,000. We aim to beat that total this year.

Giving does not just help the recipients, of course; those who give gain as much, because that is the way generosity works.

The Christmas Fund is all about the compassion of the season: It is a time to help those who need it. Your donation does not need to be big, because every little bit helps. You can make a difference in the lives of others.

Let’s do all that we can to make this the most wonderful time of the year — the time when we come together as a community to help each other.

Thank you.