In My Opinion: Centre 55’s Share a Christmas Program fills an essential need in the community
By REZA KHOSHDEL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CENTRE 55
As the holidays draw near, many of us eagerly prepare for the festive season—decorating our homes, planning family gatherings, and carefully choosing gifts for loved ones. But for some in our community, this time of year brings worry instead of joy, as they struggle to provide the basics, let alone celebrate the season.
It is in moments like these that programs like Share a Christmas become not just meaningful, but essential. None of this would be possible without the incredible generosity and sacrifice of our community, whose unwavering support each year helps us bring hope and joy to those who need it most.
Recently, I heard a story from a long-time supporter of Centre 55 that perfectly illustrates why this program matters so much. As a child, she and her siblings faced a difficult reality after her father lost his job due to illness. The family barely had enough to get by, and the holidays were shaping up to be no different — until a knock came at their door. It was a neighbour with a box of groceries, a few wrapped toys, and a kind word.
What stuck with her wasn’t just the gifts, though they brought happiness, but the overwhelming relief and gratitude her parents felt. It was a powerful reminder of how a single act of kindness can make an extraordinary difference.
That gesture, she said, transformed what could have been a bleak holiday into one filled with laughter, love, and the comforting knowledge that their community cared. Today, she volunteers with Centre 55 to share that same message of hope and compassion with others who need it most.
Programs like Share a Christmas embody the spirit of hope and the timeless principle of neighbours caring for one another.
At Centre 55, we’re proud to support families in need by providing grocery gift cards, toys for children, and gift cards for teens. This initiative goes beyond meeting immediate needs—it’s about affirming to our neighbours that they are valued and supported, especially during challenging times.
This year, as we continue to grapple with the rising costs of food and housing, the demand for our Share a Christmas program (now in its 43rd year) has reached unprecedented levels. Your generosity will help ensure that no family in our community feels forgotten this holiday season.
Here’s how you can make a difference: consider donating unwrapped toys for children under 16, gift cards for teens, or making a monetary contribution to support the program. For those who want to give their time, we’re also seeking volunteers to help sort and deliver gifts on Dec. 17 and 18.
Your kindness has the power to create lasting memories and remind families facing hardship that they are not alone. Together, we can make this holiday season a little brighter for everyone.
From all of us at Centre 55, thank you for your generosity. Wishing you and your loved ones a season filled with happiness, health, and the spirit of giving.
For information on how to help, please go to https://www.centre55.com/programs/share-a-christmas/
