Editor’s note: Between Dec. 17 and Dec. 27, The Chatham Voice is proud to share the 10 Stories of Giving. Each day, we follow a different story of Chatham-Kent giving, courtesy of The Gift. To read others, click here.
I was involved in The Gift from the first planning meeting until the final clean up. The impact was tremendous. You see, I lost a child many years ago, and lost all interest in Christmas as a result.
I’ve gone through the motions, but my Christmas spirit died with my son.
Through the weeks of involvement, the biggest effect for me was the “Share Shoppe” and those two special days. The opportunity – the honour – of taking part in those two days is what brought that spirit back, if only for those few days.
The giving, the sharing, with no questions asked and with nothing expected in return, was a spiritual experience.
I saw the community come through with generous donations as only Chatham-Kent can.
I saw the teamwork of people working together to make a difference, for others, not for personal recognition or pats on the back.
With every possible need met for organizations, shelters, and food kitchens, there was still ‘room at the inn’, there was more made available in Chatham Kent.
For two very full days I witnessed people being blessed with food, gifts, and clothing. In those two days, I saw the volunteers giving of their time to help those receiving their Gifts.
I felt it all.
It’s often been said that in giving we receive.
I stepped up to volunteer, to just do my part. Almost 3,000 people did the same thing in one way or another.
The sadness and loneliness that usually precedes Christmas was lessened this year. By offering to help others, I was surrounded with selfless volunteers when I may have otherwise isolated.
With a full heart, I thank you Chatham Kent, for giving me The Gift.
- Anonymous
“We are all so fortunate. I’m so proud to be part of such a caring, giving and generous community. We are turning spirits around,” Dave Barnier, owner, Erieau Marina, said.
