“Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts.” -Janice Maeditere (American Writer)

This holiday season will be different in terms of how we traditionally celebrate. Look at it this way: the best gift you can give is love, respect for good health, and caring for others. Our gatherings may be smaller, but our hearts can be big!

If you are in need of assistance, the Christmas Bureau of Edmonton has been a mainstay of support during the season. From their website:

At the Christmas Bureau we are a connector of over 85 social service agencies providing those in need a one-stop application process for Christmas services. The client information is compiled by the Christmas Bureau into a centralized client database to deliver food hampers or food gift cards. The client list is also used by 630 CHED Santas Anonymous for the delivery of toys to children age 0 to 12 years and to provide gift cards for teens aged 13 to 17 through the Christmas Bureau Adopt-A-Teen program, sponsored by The Edmonton Sun.

Due to present restrictions, food hampers are not being delivered. However, gift cards for Safeway/Sobeys are being mailed out. You can visit the website www.christmasbureau.ca, email mail@christmasbureau.ca, or call (780) 421-9627.
If you are not in need but would like to help, donations are always accepted.

Yes, things will be different this year. You may not be able to physically embrace loved ones, but you can hug them within your heart, and communicate your care from a distance. Let the new normal be looking out for each other!

To all of the readers, volunteers, and staff of Boyle McCauley News, I wish you a pleasant, safe holiday, and that we approach a New Year with safety and confidence. The best to you all.

Ian is a columnist with the paper. He lives in the area.