The Compassion Society of Halton, a Burlington-based food bank and support hub, has raised $1,886 toward its $35,000 holiday gift card goal, the charity says. That is 5.4% of the target, with about three weeks left before its Friday, Dec. 4 donation deadline.
Last year, the society says, the community beat its holiday gift card goal. This year's program launches shortly after the Dec. 4 cutoff.
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To collect and deliver the cards faster, the society is sticking to just three stores this year: Walmart, President's Choice and Dollarama.
It asks for new gift cards in $25 increments, such as $25, $50, $75 or $100 and up. People who would rather give money can send it by direct deposit (e-transfer) to [email protected], noting it is for the Holiday Gift Program.
Cards can be dropped off at 1881 Fairview Street, Units 4 and 5, in the Staples Plaza next to Mandarin. The drop-off is open Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The charity started more than 25 years ago, when founder Mina Wahidi set up a clothing rack in her Burlington basement. It now serves people across Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Halton Hills, Acton and Georgetown.
The society, which says it is growing into a community service hub for vulnerable neighbours, is also recruiting three new board members. It especially wants people with experience in marketing, fundraising or law, and networks that could open doors to funding or public policy.
Board members are volunteers who serve a two-year term, with about 10 board meetings plus the annual general meeting each year. Applications are due Monday, Nov. 30.
