Chantal would like a queen-size duvet in a bright colour. Robert would like an MP3 player or an old iPod. Kristy would like an acoustic guitar.
These aren’t letters to Santa, but the wish lists of some of the people who rely on Rock Bay Landing for a dry place to sleep and a hot meal.
The Victoria Cool Aid Society, which houses the city’s most vulnerable people through shelters and transitional housing, has partnered with the Homeless Partners Christmas Wish List program. The program allows people to buy personalized gifts for someone in need.
Adults staying at Rock Bay Landing in Burnside Gorge, Sandy Merriman House for women downtown, and Next Steps transitional shelter in North Park will benefit from the gifts.
“The beauty of this program is that it provides an opportunity to learn about some individuals and give the right gift for them,” said Joann Connolly, Cool Aid’s manager of shelters. “It brings great joy and practical help into the lives of our residents at an emotionally difficult time of year for many.”
A list of participating shelters, along with the stories of some of the residents and their wish lists, can be found at homelesspartners.com/shelters-list/victoria. Items can be dropped off at the shelters by 10 a.m. on Dec. 23.
