Even the smallest gesture of kindness can have big meaning for women going through tough times, probably even more so when that gesture comes from a stranger.
Margaret Wong is trying again this year to offer that to women and kids in Delta who are fleeing domestic violence.
This Christmas, she’s trying to assemble enough small gifts to put together 150 Christmas Shoeboxes, for the residents of Azure Place, a transition house for women and kids.
“Every box is packed with love and hope and I’m hoping to pack 150 boxes this year for Azure Place and the sister houses. I believe with the generosity of the South Delta residents, this can be achieved,” Wong said.
She said the effect of prolonged COVID, increased interest rates and rising living costs have been challenging for many “and the needs are greater than ever.”
Her aim is to put the shoeboxes together for women and children either at risk or facing abusive relationships and domestic violence.
“These Christmas Shoeboxes will uplift their spirit with a message of hope, care and encouragement,” Wong said.
Wong, a local realtor, is also teaming up with local fitness instructor Lynn Cheng who teaches at Ladner Leisure Centre and McKee Seniors Recreation Centre.
To help fill those boxes, donations of scarfs, hats or mittens are being collected.
Also needed are donations of:
• nut-free chocolate, candy, gum, or other sweet treats
• tea or hot chocolate mix
• shampoo and conditioner, body wash and lotion, sleep mask
• toothpaste, toothbrushes, hand sanitizers, reusable masks
• cosmetic makeup wipes, lip balm, nail polish etc.
• gift cards for coffee or food or a retail store, transit tickets
• journals, stationeries, pens, games, colouring books
• new toys for the children in the shelter
People can bring their contributions to Wong’s residence at 5075 Whitworth Cres. South, in Ladner, or call 778-288-6330. Wong also can do curb-side pickup in South Delta as well.
Other locations where donations can be dropped are at:
• Tsawwassen Collision Ltd. - Tsawwassen, 1835 - 56th St., Delta, (604) 943-6383,
• Acorn Service Group for Plumbing & Heating, Tsawwassen, 5646 - 12th Ave., Delta, 604-948-9949
• Envision Financial Group, Tsawwassen Branch, 1319 - 56th St., Delta, 604-502-4933
• Envision Financial Group, Ladner Branch, 5155 Ladner Trunk Rd., 604-501-4211
• Robertson Optical & Optometry, No. 102, 5405 Ladner Trunk Rd. 604-946-7911
• McKee Senior Center, 5155 - 47th Ave, 604-946-1411
• Glenn Issler Mortgage Specialist, Hampton Cove area, 778-861-0127.
