Tuesday a time for giving
For many Albertans, offering time and money to community causes comes as second nature.
They know the programs and projects simply wouldn’t exist without their support.
So this week’s “Giving Tuesday” may remind them to make further donations. At this time of year, there are many events and invitations to help that happen.
In Lethbridge, those opportunities to help others can be fun. And youngsters can join in by tossing a teddy bear, lighting a “Tree of Hope” or stuffing a transit bus.
On Saturday, the Lethbridge Hurricanes invite hockey fans to bring a teddy bear or a toque to the game — and toss it onto the ice when the Canes score their first goal.
The stuffed animals and warm toques will be distributed by no fewer than 10 organizations that are helping families in need: the Interfaith Food Bank; the Chinook Regional Hospital; the Head dress Society; the Salvation Army, Streets Alive; the Piikani Schools Napi Friendship Association; Lethbridge Family Services; the Sik-ooh-kotoki Friendship Centre; the Taber Food Bank; and the Blood Tribe Police.
Making it still easier, fans will receive a game ticket free with the purchase of a toque or teddy at either Canadian Tire store for $9.99.
Earlier on Saturday, Streets Alive will welcome everyone to its “Heralding Hope Festival,” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At the mission on 4 Street South guests can help by stuffing a stocking, or by dropping off donations of warm jackets, coats and hoodies — as well as boots, shoes or jeans.
They may also contribute to the “Lighting the Tree” event, and enjoy hot chocolate or apple cider.
Then on Dec. 5 — “customer appreciation day” at most Lethbridge supermarkets — individuals and families can help replenish the city’s food banks during the annual “Stuff a Bus” campaign at both Save-on-Food locations.
Pre-packaged food hampers will be available, but if donors prefer to select their items there will be volunteers on hand to indicate what foods are needed most. Of course, cash donations will also be welcome.
Lethbridge Transit buses will be on-site from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at both locations.
Seasonal projects already underway include the “Stockings of Hope” and “Angel Tree” campaigns, both aimed at bringing cheer to children and families who won't have a lot this Christmas.
“Angel Tree,” organized by Lethbridge Family Services, is collecting unwrapped toys as well as food donations for the Lethbridge Food Bank. For convenience, gifts of either kind can be taken to the Christmas display in the city hall foyer during regular business hours.
The YWCA’s annual “Stockings of Hope” program provides opportunities to help women and children in need who are counting on the Y for some assistance.
Stockings ready to be filled are hung along a lobby fireplace, along with a “wish list” indicating what items are most needed. Donors are invited to come by and check the lists, then return with unwrapped gifts for those women and children.
Businesses and residents may also help with the agency’s “critical needs” list, with items the YWCA needs throughout the year.
At the Interfaith Food Bank, meanwhile, doors are open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., to accept food donations to help cover the holiday period. Its adjoining Second Door Thrift Shop will also be open, with half-price items on Saturdays in December.
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