The final count is in! Thanks to you, the Times Colonist Christmas Fund raised $1,121.796.82 in 2023 — and that money will make a lasting difference in our community.
The big story, however, is in where the money goes.
We have already given a million dollars to about 60 organizations that help people in need. Thanks to our partnership with the local chapter of the Sovereign Order of St. John, and thanks to your support, we are making things brighter and better for thousands of people.
In the months ahead, you will read more about the organizations that benefit from your support.
The 2023 total includes $1,070,704.77 that came in through 3,772 donations during our formal fundraising campaign, which runs every year from Nov. 12 to Dec. 31.
We appreciate every donation that comes in, whether it is part of the big push in November and December, or earlier in the year.
Bear with me as I mention the fund for the last time until Tuesday, Nov. 12, when we launch the formal 2024 fundraising campaign.
We accept donations 365 days a year. Several people make monthly donations through CanadaHelps. It’s easy to budget for those gifts, and the money adds up to a tidy sum.
Donate by going to our web page, tcchristmasfund.com.
Donations, monthly or one time, can be made by credit card, by PayPal, and even with securities. We recently had a $16,373 boost thanks to donated securities.
You can also send a cheque to the Times Colonist Christmas Fund at 201-655 Tyee Road, Victoria, B.C. V9A 6X5.
Our Christmas Fund is a charitable organization, so donations qualify for a tax receipt.
Remember that it’s never too early to start planning for your tax return, and for making donations. As we get additional money through the year, we do our best to put it to work as soon as possible.
Planning ahead might also include the fund as you update your will. Every year we get donations through bequests.
A big, sincere thanks, from the heart. Once again you have shown what we can achieve when we all work together.
The final list of donors to the 2023 campaign is on page A6 today.
