Columnists
Gifting
The coloured lights are bringing a glow to County nights, and here and there a smattering of snow reminds us of a White Christmas, if the carols played over retail loudspeakers fail to do so.
Speaking of carols, the solstice celebration most commonly observed in this community is meant to be about good tidings and joy, coming together when the nights are longest and the days are coldest. Even those who don’t celebrate can appreciate that.
All that rushing around, ignoring carols and loading up credit cards seems to go against that sentiment.
But there is another way to give gifts, ones that go beyond purchasing something that could end up in the back of someone’s closet. Instead, a donation to a local not-for-profit in honour of a loved one can mean a lot, not only to the honouree, but also to the people who rely on those organizations.
One-time donations are wonderful, but if the organization is set up for it, a monthly donation is even better—a slow drip of funds that helps organizations get through less charitable months.
Worthy organizations in the County include groups like Alternatives for Women, which supports women dealing with abusive relationships; the various Legions, which provide resources and camaraderie for veterans and their communities; and the Salvation Army in Picton, which provides support to those finding themselves in need of emergency food, clothing or shelter.
Everyone is responsible for doing their own research, but here are some suggestions.
To give a gift to a young person, or someone who cares most about the next generation, County organizations include Reaching for Rainbows, which supports girls needing a boost in confidence and skills; the Recreational Outreach Centre, which supports children’s development; the Impact Arts Camp, a free summer camp for creative kids; and the Prince Edward Learning Centre, which provides support for young people who didn’t fit in our educational institutions.
If the person on behalf of whom you’re donating is concerned with food security, organizations in the County that help keep folks fed include the StoreHouse Foodbank, the Picton United Church Food Bank, Food Not Bombs, Food to Share and the Food 4 Learning program.
Or perhaps this person is more interested in supporting healthcare. In that case, perhaps the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, Hospice Prince Edward and the Alzheimer Society of Hastings-Prince Edward would be worth considering. Or if mental health is a more important focus for them, try Children’s Mental Health Services or Heal With Horses.
Does your honouree love arts and culture? There’s the Prince Edward County Arts Council, The Regent Theatre, 99.3 County FM and the County museums. Animals? Consider the Loyalist Humane Society or the Pet Food Bank. The environment? Adopt an acre from Quinte Conservation.
This is by no means a complete list.
You can always show your love with the latest gadget or a new tea cozy. But if you give by giving, the money you spend might mean a lot more.
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