Generosity, kindness, compassion, it’s the best Christmas gift foothills residents have given this holiday season.
The economic downturn has been felt in Okotoks and the Foothills, but the community has also been witness to an incredible outpouring of generosity so far during the holiday season.
For many, it will be a difficult Christmas. Layoffs have affected families. RCMP reported earlier this year the number of domestic violence cases are up. The number of families using the Okotoks Food Bank is way up. It’s a similar story for other local charities.
It’s been a blessing to watch how many people are working hard in the community to give back.
The Foothills community has rallied together as schools, businesses, sports teams and community groups jumped into action to raise money, donate food, toys and other basic necessities for families, even baking cookies and treats to make the holidays just a little brighter for someone who needs it.
Okotoks businessman Gerry Wood donated $100,000 to the Calgary Salvation Army. So far, the Western Wheel Cares charity campaign has raised $30,540. It’s actually more than $3,000 ahead of the total donations at this time last year.
Then there’s the countless individuals of all ages who have scraped together whatever they can to ensure families are able to have a Merry Christmas.
The New Year may eventually bring some better economic times, but it may not be a quick turnaround.
The Foothills community never fails to rally together to help people in need and that’s a gift that will be felt year-round.
