It's good to have friends in major retail outlets says the Midstream Support Society.
The non-profit Morinville social support agency works to help people through their tough times while promoting opportunities to bring them back to self-sufficiency, plus it gives them boosts along the way, too. It offers an annual festive meal for between 200 and 250 people. It also provides charitable services to the community, including emergency financial assistance and a thrift store for thrifty shoppers.
There's also the Santa Store located in the former teen centre. The unique service works a lot like the local Salvation Army Church's Toy Room where parents get to pick out one big and one small present for each of their children, with a total value of about $40. It isn't much but most people are just grateful to have something – anything – under the tree.
That's where Mike Pascuzzo entered the picture. The general manager of St. Albert's Canadian Tire location is no stranger to community donations, being a strong advocate and supporter of the St. Albert Food Bank. When he heard that Notre Dame Elementary School was collecting Canadian Tire dollars (through its Pennies from Heaven initiative), he said that his store would match their collection dollar for dollar and cent for cent.
And then, on top of that, he said that he'd also drop off a heaping truckload of free new toys for the Santa Store – 182 toys worth almost $5,700.
Joyce Preeper, president of the Midstream, was flabbergasted, but certainly appreciative.
"It was a tremendous donation."
She remarked that the surprise went a long way, especially since there has been about the same number of clientele as last year, about 160 families. Last year's store provided toys to approximately 200 children.
She said that Midstream does its level best to help out in times of need, and there are many out there who could use a helping hand.
"There is a real need there. We help people with their rent or if they need medical supplies, something along those lines. A year or so ago we helped a young fellow get chemo."
As for Pascuzzo, he says that this was no act of corporate absolution. This donation, along with all of the charity work his store does, is because he just wants to help.
"It is never an obligation. Strictly from the heart," he admitted.
Midstream operates year-round. Any gifts remaining from the Santa Store are passed along to the Knights of Columbus to be used for its hamper program.
If you are interested in helping out the cause, or need to learn how to access its services, contact the Midstream Society at 780-939-3953.
Salvation Army hitting targets despite kettle volunteer shortfall
With just four days left to go before Christmas, and only three days to go in its annual Christmas Kettle campaign, the Salvation Army is saying that things are on track to meet its target. This news comes as a welcome surprise following the recent acknowledgement that a lot of kettles had to be kept back due to a lack of kettle keepers.
"Last year was our best year and we're heading towards that," said Pastor Peter Kim.
The campaign goal is $270,000.
Call 780-458-1937 or visit www.stalbertsalvationarmy.ca for more information.
