It’s that time of year again. The holiday season is officially upon us. Let the hustle and bustle begin.
As much as I enjoy all the festivities, it usually takes me a little while to shake off my lingering Halloween hangover (my absolute favourite holiday). But now that we’re midway through November, and the days are shorter and chillier, I’m finally starting to feel those cozy holiday vibes.
With all the shopping, prepping and partying that comes along with Christmas, it can sometimes be easy to forget the true meaning of the season: giving.
Each year, I do my best to support a good cause with my time, energy and resources, especially when it benefits the local community.
I’ve dedicated this column to highlighting some wonderful ways you can give back this holiday season in Bradford.
Here we go:
Handbags of Hope
For the second year in a row, I’m thrilled to support the Handbags of Hope campaign with the Bradford Women’s+ Group, benefiting Abuse Hurts. This initiative aims to collect and fill 350 purses with essential toiletry items like shampoo, deodorant, and lip balm for women in our community who are rebuilding their lives after facing violence.
We’ve set up donation boxes across town, so you can easily drop off your contributions throughout November. In early December, volunteers gather for a heartwarming ‘packing party’ at the library to assemble the bags. Last year, we exceeded our goal with 314 purses donated, and this year, we’re determined to reach 350. For more details and drop-off locations, visit the BWG Women’s+ Group Facebook page.
A Bradford Christmas Fundraiser
Bradford sisters Sarah and Emily Dahlgren are back with another incredible fundraiser. This year, they’re raising $100,000 for Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka, which provides support, education and hope to those affected by cancer. I had the pleasure of attending their bowling fundraiser for the cause in September — it was an absolute blast. Next up is their much-anticipated silent auction, which officially kicks off Monday, Nov. 18 and runs until Monday, Nov. 25. I can’t wait. The sisters have hosted auctions during holiday seasons before, and I love seeing all the businesses that come together to support. Save the link for Nov. 18 to check out all the prizes up for grabs, including gift baskets, experiences, home decor, family activities, car detailing, gift certificates, food, baked goods, stocking stuffers, large items and so much more.
Helping Hand Food Bank
The demand at food banks is especially high during the holiday season. In addition to donating non-perishable food items, you can make a monetary donation online to help volunteers purchase essential items. You can bring items to the food bank’s new location at 177 Church St. or drop some off at the Community Fridge in front of the library. Visit the Helping Hand Food Bank to learn more.
WOW Living’s Christmas Wish List
Every year, WOW Living brings holiday joy to families in need through its Christmas Wish List program. You can visit the wish list online to ‘adopt’ a family member and purchase gifts for them. Wrapped presents are dropped off at 177 Church St. and distributed during a festive holiday party with a delicious meal on Dec. 14. I have witnessed the preparation and efforts that go on behind the scenes for this, and it is truly heartwarming. This initiative is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit, and it’s a great way to get family and friends involved.
South Simcoe police — Stuff a Trailer
The annual Stuff a Trailer events hosted by South Simcoe police in partnership with CTV and Toy Mountain are always a hit with my kids. We love picking out a new toy at Walmart or Canadian Tire and dropping it into the police trailer. The twinkling cruiser lights at night make it even more magical. Dates for this year’s events are still to be announced, so keep an eye on their social media channels.
County of Simcoe Paramedic Services Food and Toy Drive
Across the region, there are numerous drop-off points where you can donate non-perishable food items and unwrapped toys. Last year, they collected more than 18,000 toys, nearly 15,000 pounds of food, and more than $21,000 in donations. Let’s help them make an even bigger impact this year.
Decorator’s Edge Toy Drive
The team at Decorator’s Edge has been running its annual toy drive for more than 20 years, with all donations going to Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre and Community for Kids in Innisfil. The toy drive typically kicks off around the Bradford Santa Claus parade and runs right up to Christmas Eve. It’s a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer to children in need.
No matter where or how you choose to give this year, remember even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Natasha Philpott is a Barbie-loving, cat-obsessed writer who lives in Bradford with her husband and two boys. Follow her on Instagram here: @tashaphilly.
