’Tis the season to give and share, but for many it is also the season of increased financial stress and panic.
Closets are filling up with colourfully wrapped packages and credit cards are being racked up faster than uncle can down those boozy eggnogs.
With only nine shopping days left until Christmas, panic is starting to set in for some as they frantically search for the perfect gift.
Giving is supposed to feel good, not stressful.
“So this is Christmas, what have you done?” John Lennon sang the line in his Christmas anthem, and raised a good point.
While Christmas may be synonymous with generous giving, the point is make it pleasant for all. As Charlie Brown so astutely pointed out four decades ago, the season with its focus on materialism leaves him feeling depressed.
Adopting local families in need, donating non-perishables, or writing a cheque to an agency that will help families in the area, like Powell River and District United Way—these are just a few ways the spirit of giving can be spread, while making a difference.
The season of giving has already started and it has warmed many hearts to see all the food and toys that have been collected by the Christmas Cheer Committee this year. There are sure to be a lot of happy children on Christmas morning because of the generosity of strangers. But there is always great need.
Powell River Action Centre Food Bank is always in need of donations and students at Brooks Secondary School have made the effort to help with the Jingle Jog, but more can always be done.
And we can’t forget the Salvation Army and its Kettle Campaign. The sounds of bells can be heard in many locations around town. If volunteers have the time to take a shift, one or two hours from now until December 24, the Salvation Army would appreciate the help.
For those wishing to support larger national charities this Christmas, the website canadahelps.org is a portal to thousands of Canadian charities and offers gift cards that allow recipients the choice of where to give.
This season why not take the opportunity to give a gift that helps by donating both time and money to helping those who are less fortunate. With minimal effort it is possible to make sure that everyone in the community has a happy holiday.
