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The need this year is greater than ever
Thursday December 3 2009
Laura Boughen, president of the Albion Bolton Agricultural Society and Scott Goodfellow, also a member of the Agricultural Society, hand over the keys to the President’s Building at the Bolton fairgrounds to Caledon Community Services’ Executive Director Monty Laskin and Manager of Community Services, Joanna Lenz. CCS?is using the warehouse to collect food and toys for the Santa Fund over the holiday season. Heather Abrey Photo
 
As the holiday season approaches, many uncertainties exist in Caledon and around the globe. One thing is for certain though - this community's warmth and compassion for its fellow citizens is paramount. And it is now, more than ever, that Caledon needs to put its best foot forward.
The annual Caledon Community Services' Santa Fund, bolstered by community support, is just the ticket for spreading some holiday cheer.
Thanks to the Albion & Bolton Agricultural Society’s generosity, the President's Building at the Bolton Fairgrounds is once again being transformed into the Santa Fund Workshop, a facility that even jolly old Saint Nick would be proud of. The doors opened Dec. 3 and Santa's helpers are now accepting donations Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Dec. 15. It's an incredible hive of activity that truly makes you proud to live in this community.
The Santa Fund - Caledon's largest collection campaign of food, toys and monetary donations - provides assistance for people in need in our community. The goal this year is to raise $145,000 and also provide food and gifts for 200 families and 400 children.
This is no small feat and it needs everyone to lend a hand. Donations can be made directly to CCS by mail or through their website, www.ccs4u.org. Your generosity will provide support throughout the year; it ensures that heat stays on by subsidizing utility bills; it bolsters food hampers by providing vouchers used to purchase produce and dairy; and it keeps our most vulnerable children properly clothed. Last year, the Santa Fund provided a helping hand to more than 175 families and 350 children in Caledon.
The benchmark this year is higher….because it has to be!
There are many Caledon families struggling to make ends meet as the global recession continues to linger and touches our neighbours from all walks of life. This presents many challenges in Caledon, making this year's campaign all the more pressing.
"The challenges this year are daunting”, said Monty Laskin, Executive Director of Caledon Community Services. “Unlike past years, the face of need has changed dramatically. The increase in first-time users of our many assistance programs has been astounding. We need the community’s individuals, families, and businesses to step in. We’re doing all we can so that no one gets left behind during one of the most difficult periods our community has seen in many years.”
New toys keep the spirit of the season alive in the hearts of children. Donations of food ensure that everyone gathered around the family table is well-nourished. And monetary donations allow CCS to purchase food vouchers, prescriptions, home heating, rent, emergency expenses and crisis counselling every day of the year.
In order to meet the deadline and distribute your food and toy donations, you must visit the Agricultural Society’s warehouse no later than Tuesday, December 15th.
"While you are enjoying all that this holiday season brings, please think of those in need in our great community”, said JoAnna Lenz, Manager of Community Services. “Help us ensure that everyone has a warm and happy Christmas and a community behind them all year long".
In the Caledon spirit of goodwill, please donate. Visit the President's Building, call 905.584.2300 or donate on-line at www.ccs4u.org.