Dec. 1st is Giving Tuesday, a global movement for giving and volunteering, taking place after Black Friday. This year, we’re asking for your support! Make a donation or learn more about your contribution at: www.cnh.bc.ca/donate.
When COVID-19 hit, Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) responded. Within days we had pivoted to online programming for youth, families, seniors and adults. Within weeks, we had new programming in place; food hampers, grocery shopping, laundry service and frozen food delivery.
One of the new services we are offering is friendly phone calls, between a volunteer and a senior. It’s a hit!
The relationship between Teresa and Esther is a good example of the joy this effort sparks. When COVID-19 hit, Teresa’s workplace shut down, which at first left her feeling “giddy with sudden freedom.” But she realized the pandemic made life difficult for many people so she volunteered with CNH to phone three isolated seniors. “I can honestly say that I have been enjoying my phone chats with them more than any other volunteer work I’ve done in years.”
Esther was at the other end of those calls. Being isolated, she said the calls perk her up and she calls Teresa “a very beautiful person.” Yet the two have never met in person, only through calls. “It’s just the tone of her voice,” Esther said of Teresa. “She is a listener, just fantastic. I wasn’t expecting phone calls like that,” she said. “She makes my day brighter.” Teresa calls her relationship with Esther unique, “one built on trust and goodwill and a simple desire to connect with another human being in the midst of a trying time. I am grateful to have the opportunity to do this work.”
Now you too have the opportunity to help. We know that this has been a financially challenging time for many. If, however, you are in the position to help, please direct a donation, of any amount, to CNH to support our programming. Please help us enhance the lives of those around us by generously considering a tax-receiptable donation today.
