Getting through the pressures of the holidays can be tough for anyone, but it can be really challenging if you’re struggling and for one reason or another don’t have money for the basics so that you can take care of yourself as well.
That’s where Women Helping Women steps in.
Since 2010, the South Delta-based group has been helping by collecting personal care and wellness items and distributing them to needy women throughout Metro Vancouver.
One woman’s message after receiving a gift package appears on this year’s publicity poster.
“I received a package one year. It made more of a difference than anyone could know…
“I knew I wasn’t forgotten and that somehow I mattered. I learned when I take care of me, I can do better for others,” said the woman.
“The gift went far beyond a few products in a bag … I think you tossed some hope in there too.”
Pindi Mann said the initiative is mainly based in South Delta, although there’s a small group in Abbotsford that’s also helping out.
As well, some youth sports teams are also buying items for teen gift bags.
“We love that this initiative is something that all ages are involved in,” said Mann. “Times are tough for many in our community this year, so we don’t think we’ll make the 1,000 mark this year,” she said.
Still, they hope to put together several hundred gift packages in now their 13th year.
The packages are given out at shelters, second-stage housing and to women who’ve been referred by local agencies.
Women helping Women is looking for new items, in unopened packages, such as shampoo and conditioner, razors and shaving cream, socks and mittens, sanitary pads and tampons, hair brushes, body washes, tooth brushes and toothpaste, deodorant, pyjamas, body lotion, makeup, umbrellas and gift sets.
Donations of such items can be dropped off until Nov. 26 at Muddy River Landing, the Royal Canadian Legion and Ladner Village Arts and Crafts in Ladner; and at Locks N Lashes, Deas Island Dance, Beauty Babe Studio, Myne Salon and Yoga Union in Tsawwassen.
They can also be delivered to a house at 4400 – 63A St. Donations can also be made on at this link.
