Our ACRA Christmas donations have amounted to a very nice $7985.
A first instalment of $7495 was delivered to St. Gabriel’s on Dec. 17 during a very busy voucher reception process (a few photos attached). As Sister Dianna explained, the 300+ recipients were scheduled over a few days, but there is an accepted measure of non-compliance and hence a small but constant line-up. Those arriving were well received and were guided by a score of volunteers as they met Sister for verification and their voucher, then along a children’s gift section and an area of donated items – and, as with the year-long Food Bank, it was a very smooth and personal operation!
Sister is currently preparing income tax receipts and asks if there are any discrepancies to please let me know.
Thank you all and best wishes for 2025
Jerry Dunn
Dear Members of ACRa and Friends.
It is with a heart full of gratitude that I write you this Thank you note. Your kind generosity to our Food Bank of $7985 was more than I could Imagine, as there are so many organization asking for assistance and there is just so much you can give.
This year we were able to help 350 families, elderly and individuals with a gift card, the amount depending on the number in the household. I know that those we managed to help were very happy, as many told me, that a gift card was most welcome so they could by their own food for Christmas. We have many new comers frequenting our food bank each month and a waiting list of over 50 people!
The two days we gave out the gift cards, we also had snow suits for children, hats, mittens, lots of toys, as well as items for adults, all donated. Everyone left with a 'thank you' and a big smile wishing everyone a Happy Holiday!
So thank you for your thoughtfulness and sharing. In closing we have a few words from Pope Francis: "One billion people still suffer from hunger today. We cannot look the other way and pretend this does not exist The food available in the world is enought to feed everyone"
Thank you for not looking 'the other way'. Blessings and Happy New Year, filled wo\ith joy and good health.
Sister Dianna Lieffers , NDS
