Annual White Cross Christmas Gift campaign underway

The Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) annual White Cross Christmas Gift Campaign is now underway.

This is an Islandwide campaign distributing over 900 gifts annually to individuals with emotional or mental health issues.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, CMHA has made changes to make the campaign safe for volunteers and gift recipients.

In the past, CMHA accepted tangible donations of mitts, scarves, toiletries and other items.

At this time, CMHA is asking if people would consider making monetary donations, although all donations will be gladly accepted.

Monetary donations will be used to purchase gift cards for White Cross recipients.

This year’s goal is to raise $20,000 to purchase gift cards for its members across Prince Edward Island.

White Cross program co-ordinator Sharon Claybourne says even though the campaign will look different this year they are still hopeful people will take part.

“We know that many Islanders, businesses and community groups are feeling the impact from this pandemic, but we really hope that they will still be able to support us. It continues to amaze me how generous Islanders really are and how they have supported this campaign in the past.

“For our members, this campaign means so much to them. The feelings of isolation can be exasperated during the holidays. These gift cards and acts of kindness go a long way in ensuring the recipients feel valued and maintain good spirits during a time which can be particularly hard for some.”

CMHA is accepting monetary donations for the White Cross Christmas Gift Campaign until Dec. 18.

People can make a donation by going to CMHA P.E.I.’s website at www.pei.cmha.ca, calling the division office at 902-566-3034, in person at 178 Fitzroy St. in Charlottetown or by mailing a cheque to CMHA P.E.I., PO Box 785, Charlottetown, P.E.I., C1A 7L9.