With the passing of Remembrance Day, the holiday season has kicked into high gear. Christmas trees are being decorated, shoppers are greeted with the sound of carols and children are writing their letters to Santa.
But among the revelry and conspicuous consumption, there is supposed to be a deeper meaning to the holidays. This involves caring and sharing with our fellow citizens, many of whom will not have the same abundance on their tables or under their trees.
Continued economic uncertainty in our region is having ripple effects on households throughout Salmon Arm. The local Salvation Army Food Bank is noticing a jump in demand, with the number of people it serves increasing by 20 per cent over the same time frame last year.
They are looking at filling 600 Christmas hampers to meet the needs.
Sadly, Dave Byers, with the Salvation Army, speaks of those who used to be donors to his organization. Now some of those people have become the ones in need of a hamper.
The good news is Salmon Arm has always had a giving spirit, and we are confident that, with a little reminder, those who can give of their time money or pantry stores will do so.
When planning for your holiday celebrations, keep in mind what you can do for others.