All I Want For Christmas...

The past few years, my husband and I have struggled to get each other Christmas gifts. We both find it hard since we are fortunate to have incomes where we can make purchases for ourselves year round.  We also don't have any children, which allows us to live fairly selfishly... to be perfectly honest. Yet, regardless if we make a pact not to get each other a gift, I still find the holiday pressure makes me feel guilty for not participating. So this year we decided to do things differently...

This Christmas we decided to participate in the Adopt a Family program through our local Community Care Center. Instead of purchasing gifts for each other, we will be giving the gift of Christmas to a local family in need. Growing up, I was very fortunate to have a great big family dinner with presents that overflowed in our living room. It was an amazing feeling being a child, trying to stay up all night with the anticipation for Christmas morning. It breaks my heart to think that there are children that don't get to experience the joy of opening up gifts and sharing a Christmas dinner with their family. It's even sadder to think that there are parents that can't give this to their own children. It takes courage and strength to ask for help at this time of year. 

Last year alone, Community Care filled 3,800 tummies, assisted 50 families with utility costs ensuring warm beds, 820 people were assisted with their shelter needs and 3,200 families enjoyed a Christmas dinner with presents under the tree. Isn't that amazing?! To be able to participate in such a profound way of giving is the best gift of all in my eyes. Christmas isn't about how much money you spend on a gift or whom bought who the best gift... to me Christmas is about giving.... and sharing the giving with your family.

Whether it is some pocket change or maybe a donation to a food or gift drive, it all adds up and can make a huge impact on someone who is in need during the holidays. And trust me, giving back will make you feel wonderful... which is an emotional boost for your health!  


So this Christmas, make sure you tell all your loved ones how much they mean to you, and please keep in mind all of those less fortunate in our community this holiday season.... and when you have the opportunity to donate, please don't be a Scrooge! 

For more information, please visit : www.communitycarestca.ca