Christmas Fund

We have raised and distributed millions of dollars through our Christmas Fund over the years — including $1.12 million last year alone — and the success is a direct result of your generosity.

Giving Tuesday is a day to think of others — those in need, those less fortunate, those who have made mistakes and could use a hand.

Hundreds of people shared a Christmas feast accompanied by live music on Saturday as the Mustard Seed held its annual holiday meal.

Kim Vis was 3 1/2 when she fell through the ice of a pond near her Port Alberni home, and was pulled seemingly lifeless from the water up to 30 minutes later.

Al Hasham, owner of Maximum Express Courier and Freight, says his company will pick up cheques from donors and deliver them to charitable organizations.

There is a third silent partner as the Times Colonist Christmas Fund and Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller, work to help the community: You, the generous donor.

While few of us like parting with our money, most of us want to help our neighbours when they need it, particularly at a time when it’s nice to spread the joy.

The operation in the basement of St. Andrew’s Cathedral at View and Blanshard streets provides bagged meals from 8 to 10 a.m. Monday to Friday and on holidays — including Christmas.

Andrew Beckerman’s back this year, with a $9,600 donation to the fund, and a challenge. Is there someone out there willing to match his donation?

By Tuesday afternoon, the total had reached $155,713, from 363 donors