Our goal is to put $1 million into the community this year to help people have a better Christmas season — and thanks to you, we are halfway to our fundraising objective.
With the Times Colonist Christmas Fund at $503,466.93, this might be a good day to reflect on the goodness that is all around us.
Despite all the negativity in the world, we are surrounded by people who care, people determined to make a difference.
Several times this week, I have been reminded of that. I have seen people rise to help friends and strangers alike. There is a different vibe on our sidewalks and streets.
Perhaps the spirit of the season has arrived.
Don’t believe me? Just watch for it. Smile at others and see how they respond. Help others when you can.
You could also drop in at Market Square between 1 and 3 p.m. today for Tuba Christmas, the annual celebration of great music that has become one of Victoria’s most important events in the days leading up to Christmas.
As always, Tuba Christmas helps raise money for the Times Colonist Christmas Fund.
People here care, so we are confident we will make our $1-million goal. There is still plenty of time to add your donation to the 1,639 we have received so far.
Businesses have supported our work with cheques of $5,000, $10,000, $20,000 and even $50,000.
But individuals have opened their hearts and their wallets as well. They see the chance to make Christmas better for others, and they don’t hesitate. Every donation, no matter how small, will help make a difference.
Don’t forget that Andrew Beckerman’s $5,000 challenge is still open. He is hoping that other donors can be inspired to give the same amount.
Our fund provides a bridge between donors and those in need. We have helped hundreds of thousands of people since the fund was launched in 1956.
The money we raise is distributed to about four dozen organizations, with most of them in Greater Victoria but others north of the Malahat and on the Gulf Islands.
Together, we can make the season warmer and brighter for our neighbours.
Thank you.
HOW TO DONATE TO THE CHRISTMAS FUND
You can donate by going to the Times Colonist Christmas Fund web page, tcchristmasfund.com.
That page is linked to CanadaHelps, which is open 24 hours a day and provides an immediate tax receipt.
Or mail a cheque to the Times Colonist Christmas Fund, 201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria, B.C. V9A 6X5.
You can also use your credit card by phoning 250-995-4438 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.
