The has made it to $1 million. Thanks to everyone who donated; you have made a 颅difference in your community, and your donation is very much appreciated.
At 5 p.m. Wednesday, the fund reached $1,003,000, with two large donations 鈥� $10,000 from Paul Lalonde and $125,000 from the Jawl Foundation 鈥� helping to push it over the million-dollar milestone.
That $125,000 donation is the largest in the 65-year history of the Christmas Fund. It came from a family that was one of the driving forces behind the Rapid Relief Fund in the spring.
鈥淲e are inspired by the tremendous response of the donors to the Christmas Fund and the ongoing efforts of the non-profit agencies and their many volunteers working hard during this time of widespread need in our community,鈥� Robert Jawl, representing the Jawl family, said in making the donation. 鈥淲e feel fortunate to be able to join them in their efforts to get us through this challenging time.鈥�
We appreciate the large donations, but remember: Every donation counts. Along with these two donations, there have been 3,537 others, some for less than $10. Every one, large or small, matters.
Meeting the $1-million goal does not mean that our work is done. The need in our community is great, and it will continue well into 2021. We will continue to raise money until the end of the year, and we pledge to put it to work on Vancouver Island as soon as we can.
We know that some cheques are still in the mail, and we expect a few more people to donate online and by telephone. Every year, some donations arrive after Christmas.
This year, we have seen unprecedented need that has been matched by unprecedented generosity. We are showing that we truly care about each other. We are all in this together, and we are proving it with the response to this fund.
Over the next few days, enjoy the season as much as you can while recognizing COVID-19 protocols. Visit your loved ones by telephone or online. Think of those who are alone, and spend a few moments letting them know that they have a special place in your heart.
And please, remember that some people will not have a good time this Christmas. Some of your neighbours and friends will need help in the weeks and months to come. While it is nice to give them a Christmas dinner, we must not forget that too many people are being left behind. Let鈥檚 help them.
Providing aid can be done in a variety of ways. It is a long-term commitment.
The money that you have donated to the Christmas Fund will be put to work in the community as efficiently and effectively as possible. We owe that to everyone who donated; all of you wanted results, and we promise to deliver them.
Thank you, thank you. And Merry Christmas.
