As we start 2016, it is helpful to reflect back on the memories and lessons from the past year and all those many volunteers who made possible what our Halifax Chapter of HOPE worldwide of Canada was able to accomplish in 2015 in “bringing hope, changing lives”, and for that we are extremely grateful.
This past December saw our local volunteers and chapter help spread some extra Christmas cheer in many ways and areas. On Friday, December 18th, more than 20 Youth and Campus volunteers from HOPE worldwide descended on Melville Heights Retirement Home for an evening of Christmas Caroling, snacks and encouragement for the seniors who live there.
Earlier that week, Patty Burrage departed from Halifax for the Philippines to join up with HOPE Youth Corps, where she spent her Christmas vacation serving the poor and needy in an around Cebu. Stay tuned in January, when we will feature an article written by Patty, sharing her experiences and what she learned there. We are very proud of Patty, who was able to fundraise over $ 3,000 for her service trip and our Halifax Chapter was privileged to help assist her in reach her goal.
December closed off with our HOPE Chapter, in partnership with the Halifax-Dartmouth Church of Christ once again serving at the Sundays Suppers. This was a special season of serving there, as 30 years ago Christmas 1985, the very first Sunday Suppers was held for just over a dozen guests in need of a warm meal and a friendly smile.
This December, HOPE worldwide of Canada was very grateful for the community support from our friends at Glenbourne Chiropractic who offered and collected donations from their staff and patients to go towards making our usual meal extra special and extra festive! We are very grateful for their support, which we used to purchase extra holiday treats as well as fresh fruits for our guests, which made their Christmas dinner extra special!
We look forward to the new year and the promise that it holds, as well as the opportunities to continue to serve in our community – Happy New Year!