There's still over a week to donate to Airdrie Meals on Wheels’ annual virtual tree-decoration fundraising event, which is taking place once again throughout the month of December.
The month-long initiative aims to raise funds during the holiday season, to support the non-profit organization’s efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and independence by providing nutritious and affordable emails to Airdronians.
According to Lois Jones, media and public relations director for Airdrie Meals on Wheels, the organization spearheaded the virtual fundraiser in the winter of 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Like everyone else, [we] had to turn to an online format to get some awareness campaigning happening, as well as fundraising,” she said.
Jones added the organization was challenged to consider how they would keep their name and reputation going in the community, and how they would raise funds to keep meals accessible and affordable for clients. The answer was in the digital sphere.
“We turned to the internet, and we did this virtual tree fundraiser,” she said, adding the fundraiser was a success in both 2020 and 2021.
“Here we are in 2022 and we thought, we’ll do it one more year, just because some individuals are still reluctant to attend public fundraisers and there’s been so much going on this year already,” Jones said.
“We thought we’d keep it online for one more year, and then 2023 is our year to go back out into the public.”
As part of the initiative, members of the public can purchase virtual decorations to help garnish an online Christmas tree. Decorations include garlands, candy canes, and stars, and each is priced at different levels.
To decorate the tree, residents are encouraged to purchase a garland for whatever amount they can contribute. They can also purchase a candy cane, light, Christmas ball, a star, or even a gift under the tree, depending on their price range.
“When we came up with the virtual Christmas tree, we put a donation value on different ornaments that people traditionally put on their Christmas tree,” stated Joned. “Whether it be a candy cane, garland, or the star around the tree – there's value for all budgets.”
The proceeds from the fundraiser will go directly toward supporting the cost of producing meals for Airdrie residents in 2023.
“The money that we get from all fundraising goes towards our food costs in order to keep the meals affordable for those that rely on our service and are on a fixed income,” Jones added.
According to Jones, Airdrie Meals on Wheels provides an important service to the people of Airdrie, whether they are recovering from surgery, just getting home from a hospital, or are battling an illness without support or family within the community to provide help.
“We certainly know the value of nutrition when it comes to healthy mind, body, and soul,” she said. “There’s many people that are proud and they don’t like to ask for help, so our services are there for those that have [need] our help because we’re non-biased, non-judgmental.”
The virtual Christmas tree fundraiser will run until Jan. 2. Those interested in participating are encouraged to visit airdriemealsonwheels.ca to donate.
Tax receipts will also be available for donations of $20 or more.
