The merchants of Gibsons Landing are getting into the holiday spirit with a one-day holiday event next Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The planning for this event began three weeks ago when two local businesswomen were discussing the spirit of the season and thinking about what many people in our community would need this winter. The list was long: warm clothes for everyone in the family, blankets, sleeping bags, quilts, pillows and towels.
Although the list was long, the desire to give back was even bigger. The women imagined an event that would provide an opportunity for folks to come together and help others. This holiday event would be like an old-fashioned barn raising - inviting a whole community to get involved and work towards a goal.
Individuals, walking groups, clubs, businesses and families would join in and support the effort. From the imaginings of the women from Zocalo and The Landing Clothing Co. a plan was born and a beneficiary, St. Bart's Food Bank, was selected.
Since starting three years ago, St. Bart's Food Bank has grown by 46 per cent. Operating on the third Wednesday of each month, they now give out hampers to feed an average of 120 people per month and distribute clothing and household items at the same time.
The number of folks enjoying the monthly Helping Hand Dinner has also increased dramatically. People coming for dinner are fed delicious, nutritious meals, treated with warmth and hospitality and spend the evening enjoying live entertainment.
Now three years later, the name St. Bart's Food Bank is hardly big enough to cover the programs the parish is offering. All their efforts are made possible by the continuous help of generous individuals, clubs and local businesses.
Next Saturday, Telus vans will be parked outside each store and ambassadors from the club will receive your goods. So start looking in your closet for items that you are no longer using and can spare for others, and bring them to the vans. Donations of cash and non-perishable food items are also welcome. All donations will remain in our community and be delivered to St. Bart's Anglican Church in Gibsons at 6 p.m.
Zocalo and The Landing Clothing Co. thank you for donating to this Holiday Event. In the true spirit of the season, both stores will be Giving Back generously themselves - to anyone who participates in the event. Watch for details in next week's Coast Reporter.
- Submitted
