In the vibrant Hochelaga borough of Montreal, the Almage Senior Community Centre has embraced the spirit of giving with their initiative known as the “Month of Giving.”
Throughout November, community members gathered every Tuesday to engage in a variety of charitable activities. These included crafting for a cause, putting together puzzle-thon challenges, assembling meal-based care packages, and hosting a charity event.
Sabrina Di Ioia, the executive director of Almage Senior Community Centre, shared the inspiration behind the initiative: “November can sometimes feel somber with less happening creatively, so we decided to give back. We have passionate members keen on fundraising, so we thought, why not dedicate a project to help those in need?”
Ruth Keddy, a dedicated community member, expressed her involvement: “We crochet and knit hats, scarves, and more to donate. Whether it’s money, food, or anything else, I contribute what I can.”
Another member, Beverley Baird, highlighted her role: “I might not knit, but I volunteer, set tables, and lend a hand where needed. Every little bit counts.”
The culminating event of the Month of Giving saw the community coming together to donate to various organizations across Montreal. Through a Christmas-themed sale, they raised nearly $200 in monetary donations and collected around 500 items, ranging from essential supplies to handcrafted items by members.
Reflecting on the impact of their generosity, Baird remarked, “It’s heartening to be able to help those in need when we are fortunate enough to do so.”
As the Month of Giving drew to a close, the spirit of giving remains strong at Almage Senior Community Centre. With upcoming events planned for the holiday season, including a Christmas party and fundraising activities, the commitment to giving back continues to thrive.
