East Wellington Community Services (EWCS)has launched a Christmas appeal to those in the east Wellington community, through the annual Give a Gift of Community Support fundraising campaign.
The event launched in conjunction with an Evening of Dickens event with Transition Erin.
“Our goal is to raise $25,000 through this campaign, but ultimately, the goal is to keep the programs and services that so many in our community rely on within reach, by being able to continue to keep them here,” said Kari Simpson, executive director of EWCS.
“We are supporting so many in our community – from those families accessing the food bank in order to have enough to eat, or looking at ways to expand our recreation programs for those 55 and over, or helping those seniors through our adult day program to stay connected in the community who might otherwise become isolated.
“There are so many needs and EWCS is constantly striving to make sure that our community is cared for through those life struggles that they are facing.”
This year, the agency is hoping that people in the community will give a gift of community support by making a donation to EWCA.
“A donation to EWCS is an important gift,” said EWCS community and volunteer services manager Erika Westcott.
“It means that you are giving hope to individuals so they don’t feel alone when faced with a crisis. It means that you are helping EWCS to provide added services that respond to the needs of those in our community. Ultimately, you are helping to create positive change through providing programs and services that build a vibrant and healthy community where people choose to live and are able to stay.”
Now more than ever, families are responsible for providing primary care for their parents or grandparents, adding to the burden of a limited family budget, EWCS officials state, adding that even the simple joys of raising children can be a struggle, ensuring that they learn, socialize and grow up being healthy.
EWCS officials also point out many seniors who live by themselves struggle to live on a fixed income and remain in the community where they raised their families, but a lack of public transportation leaves them isolated at home.
For as little as $15 per month, individuals can make a difference in their own community by helping EWCS distribute food to those in need, provide transportation to seniors who would otherwise remain isolated at home, develop children’s programs and more.
All donations will be used to support the programs and services the agency provides within the east Wellington area.
“Help continue to help those who need it most by giving the gift of community support this year,” EWCS officials urge.
