An annual Christmas campaign in Vernon is getting an early start.
Every year, the NexusBC Community Resource Centre is looking to brighten up Christmas for seniors. They are starting their annual Making Spirits Bright campaign early this year, hoping that people and businesses will have more time to get involved.
“For seniors in our community who live alone, are financially challenged and don’t have any relatives nearby, the holidays can be a difficult time,” said Lee Brinkman with NexusBC. “We feel that it is important for us to let seniors know they are not alone this Christmas.”
NexusBC invites individuals, families, schools and businesses to pick up a care box from their office that can be filled with items that a senior would like. Included in the box is a list of suggested items. A personal card is also welcome.
“We also ask that you please include a gift card for groceries,” says Brinkman. “With the increased cost of groceries, seniors are really feeling the pinch and a gift card is incredibly welcome.”
NexusBC encourages parents to get their kids involved.
“Kids can really benefit from helping mom or dad put a care box together for a senior in need," said Brinkman. "It’s such a great way to cultivate empathy and compassion for others.”
NexusBC handed out 298 care boxes in 2023. Following that, many cards of appreciation were received. One individual said, “Thank you so very much for your thoughts at Christmas. It helped make Christmas more special because I am alone. Please thank the people who gave it to me.”
Anyone who wants to support Making Spirits Bright for seniors can get involved. Visit https://nexusbc.ca/news-and-events/making-spirits-bright for the details or phone 250-545-0585. Boxes can be picked up anytime Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at NexusBC, 102-3201-30th Street.
Please return the box by Dec. 10 so there is time to get it to a senior in need.
Donations to support local, low-income seniors are also welcomed online at https://nexusbc.ca/get-involved/donate.
