Tags: vancouver, local charities, giving.
A while back the National Post had a neat little side article on the inside front page that I just had to share. If you aren't Christmas minded yet, feel free to skip over, but maybe keep this link for when you're casting about trying to figure out what to give that friend who has everything....
Everyone knows that online ordering and gift catalogues are thriving, and that really becomes obvious during the last month of the year. But what do you get the person who has everything, who says they don't need anything, or who wants something charitable done in their name?
Well, one option is to check out the World Vision catalogue.
With hundreds of options, there's bound to be something that will suit your budget. At $50.00, the 2 Hens and a Rooster seems like a small price to pay when you consider that they can produce over 500 eggs a year and thrive anywhere. It's a popular idea too - the NP stated that Canadians sent 14,000 such sets to different destinations last year!
And if you're a Vancouverite who wants to donate locally? According to a recent Ipsos-Reid poll you'll be joining the nine-in-ten British Columbians who engage in some degree of charitable giving. You have plenty of options, of which I humbly offer a smattering.
People:
Union Gospel Mission is always happy for a donation, whether it be money, time or goods. Right now their most urgent need is for blankets & winter coats.
The 411 Senior's Centre is a local organization that offers a huge range of programs and services to local seniors, including 40+ free and low cost social, educational, recreational and drop-in programs. Right now they are collecting donations for their Christmas Hampers. To donate, contact Carrie at 604-684-8171 extension 235 or cbelanger@411seniors.bc.ca.
Covenant House in Vancouver provides food, shelter, clothing and counselling to the estimated 500 - 1000 street youth. If you're already purchasing other items, why not purchase something from their list for a donation?
Animals:
Vancouver Orphan Kitten Rescue and Meow Aid have both had very busy years. According to their website, VOKRA's been receiving almost daily calls regarding cats and kittens, and appreciate all financial contributions. Meow Aid is also in need of contributions, and has a wish list of urgent needs; CLAY non-clumping kitty litter, mid-range canned cat food and high-range (good quality) dry cat food. They also offer a sponsorship program.
The BCSPCA has their Biscuit program, which I've only just learned about. The fund was created to cover the medical care and rehabilitation for sick, injured or abused animals, and 100% of donations are spent on veterinary care and rehabilitation.
Lastly, there is Forgotten Felines. This past July Peggy Marsh (the founder of FF) made it into the news after being in a serious car accident which totalled her vehicle. She is still running her shelter, and counts on volunteers and contributions to help her keep things going. Check out her website for the FF wish list.
2 comments:
Followed you home from Michelle's but you can't keep me. Mainly cause you've already got two kitties! Thanks for posting links to help the animals, sometimes we get forgotten around Christmas, but kitties need purresents too!!
Hi Cin. I dropped by from Michele's tonight. Thanks for this much-needed perspective on gift giving. Giving is so much more fulfilling than receiving.
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