FALL RIVER: It was another successful Lions Christmas Express, despite the COVID19 pandemic and no food drives because of the resulting restrictions in place in the province.
Stephanie Dube, one of the organizers with the Lions Christmas Express, said the volunteer group was amazed at the support shown for the non-profit organization.
“It’s so fantastic to see the community come together to help those less fortunate in our community,” said Dube.
Because of the support from the community, including many businesses, they were able to provide a Christmas breakfast and dinner to approximately 90 families in need throughout the Fall River-Waverley-Grand Lake areas.
“Our hearts were full being able to give those families some holiday spirit in a year that has been tough on all of us and zapped our spirit time and time again,” she said.
One of the surprising things that left Dube and other volunteers—too many to name–hearts full was what they saw when they went into the LWF Hall.
Students at Lockview High in Fall River had collected enough food—including selling out the Walmart in Bedford Commons of Mr. Noodles–to fill four vehicles for those less fortunate. The food collection was part of a contest between grades at the school. The initiative was all started by Sarah MacDonald-Miles who’s O2 class had said they would collect Stove Top stuffing.
“We weren’t expecting to have hampers this year because of the restrictions in place,” said Dube. “With the cancellation of the Christmas parade and the food drives unable to occur within schools, our hopes of food hampers looked grim.”
The admin and Phil Goora, Student Council advisor, had heard and it became a competition amongst the grades. The Grade 12s won the competition.
“To see what the students did for us, was heartwarming,” said Dube. “Their care and concern for others meant baskets of food for each recipient. Thank you, students and staff.”
The Christmas Express also saw donations from many other businesses throughout the community, the use of online donation tool, and a video challenge by Grace Mimnagh that saw her $500 donation from Nourish N.S. turn into $3,000. Because the community met the donation, The Laker News’ Pat Healey had to take a bucket of water over his head. This occurred on Dec. 23, and the livestream video is over 5.1 k viewers as of Jan. 2.
MacDonald-Miles and her mom Vivian also made centerpiece arrangements and “Cups of Kindness ” and were able to donate $500 to the Lions Christmas Express.
When asked what it means to see this support and what the Christmas Express would like to say to those who donated whether it was $2, $20, $200 or more, Dube summed things up nicely.
“We are overjoyed at the support we received to give others a Christmas to remember this holiday,” Dube said. “2020 has impacted everyone but sometimes in the wake of tragedy and despair, we see the best of people.
“The Lions Christmas Express team had to find creative ways to support families in financial need and when we did, we asked for support, and the communities answered. Meals were provided along with food baskets, gift cards and personal wish lists of gift support to every family that required support.
“On behalf of all our volunteers and recipients, we wish to thank every individual, family, business, and group of donors, who made 2020 so much brighter for so many families. Wishing you all the best in 2021.”
