We have another match challenge, and it is a big one.
The Times Colonist Christmas Fund is raising money for people in need, and people who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our goal this year is simple: To raise at least twice as much as the $350,000 we raised last year. All of the money raised will be put to work in our community, providing a helping hand wherever possible.
By the end of the day Wednesday, we were at $90,000. We have a long way to go to reach our goal, but we will make it, thanks to our readers and supporters.
A special thank-you is due today to the Victoria Foundation and its board. The organization has promised to donate $10,000 if at least one other donor donates the same amount. (Or, be daring, go for more.)
The donor could be an individual, a business, or another group of some sort. All that matters is that we get $10,000, and then the foundation will match it.
Why is the foundation stepping forward?
“We recognize that the upcoming holiday season is bringing increased stress and strain to already stretched budgets this year and we hope others who can give, will join us in making a Merrier Christmas possible,” says Sandra Richardson, the CEO of the Victoria Foundation.
The Christmas Fund has already provided money to the Salvation Army and the Mustard Seed Street Church, which work directly with people in need. The more money we get, the more organizations we will be able to help.
The fund was launched in 1956, and the need has never been as great as it is this year. People in our community are crying for help — help from people like you.
Every donation helps, no matter how small.
HOW TO DONATE
Go to timescolonist.com/donate. That takes you to the Canada Helps website, which is open 24 hours a day and provides an immediate tax receipt.
If you prefer, mail a cheque, payable to the Times Colonist Christmas Fund Society, to the Times Colonist Christmas Fund, 201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria V9A 6X5.
Or use your credit card by phoning 250-995-4438 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., Monday through Friday. Outside those hours, messages will be accepted.
Thank you.
Dave Obee
Editor and Publisher
