Many years ago, a young mother needed help at Christmas. She contacted the Times Colonist Christmas Fund, and was given money to ensure that her holiday season would be a bit brighter.
Years have passed. Her children have grown. And in December, for the first time, she was able to give back. Her $25 donation helped others in need — others who are in the same dire straits that she endured so long ago.
The Times Colonist Christmas Fund is all about individuals like her — individuals who need help, and individuals who can afford to give it.
Once again, the readers of this newspaper have given a helping hand to those less fortunate, through the Christmas Fund.
To all of you who helped, a special thanks from all of us.
This season, we collected and distributed $260,805.76. That’s a remarkable total, given the tough economy, although it is well short of our record high of $284,553.13, set two years ago.
We helped 1,650 applicants, and about 3,000 people in total.
The Christmas Fund has been a vital part of Greater Victoria since 1956, when the old Daily Colonist set out to help 500 families in need. Through the years, the project has evolved and grown, but its goal has always been the same: To give help to those who need it.
Contributions came from schoolchildren, service clubs, employee groups, previous beneficiaries of the fund, and people who have given yearly for decades.
For many of our readers, this fund is as much a Christmas tradition as a tree, a turkey or pudding. A gift to the fund embodies the spirit of Christmas, since it is a chance to help strangers in need, for no personal gain.
This year’s recipients included single people, couples and families.
Everyone received grocery vouchers. Families received an additional voucher for shopping.
As we start 2014 with hopes of good health and prosperity, it is fitting that we thank our readers for their generosity. You helped others end last year on a brighter note and look forward to better times ahead.
Since it was established in 1956, the Christmas Fund has disbursed millions of dollars to help those in need.
We have been able to do so because of you, our caring readers. Thank you, as always, for your kindness and generosity. Have a great new year.
