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Charity Check-Stop for VS

Pipestone Flyer

Wetaskiwin Mayor Bill Elliot and Millet Councilor Pat Garrett hold out the donation pails that the Wetaskiwin Chartiy Check-stop.

    On December 14th, 2013, on Highway 2A near the Super 8 Hotel in Wetaskiwin, there were a multitude of flashing lights on police cars and other emergency vehicles. Police, fire, and ambulance officers were positioned along the meridian that separates north and south bound traffic. Another group of individuals in orange or yellow florescent vests were also stationed along the east and west side of the meridian. In spite of all the action, thankfully there were no accidents or emergencies. It was the scene of the annual Victim Services and Salvation Army fundraiser, the ‘Charity Check Stop.’

     As vehicles approached the Check Stop location they were cautioned by police officers to slow down and encouraged to participate in the fundraiser. Volunteers for Victim Services and the Salvation Army were lined up along the meridian and gratefully accepted cash donations, food donations and donated toys. The annual fundraiser is in support of Victims Services, the Salvation Army Food Bank and toys for Secret Santa.

    As car-after-car pulled up to the edge of the meridian, the drivers rolled down their windows and  the volunteers were greeted with the smiles of warm-hearted donors who dug deep into their wallets, purses, ash trays and beverage holders to support the worthwhile causes. Money was dropped into the collection cans and bags of unwrapped gifts and donated food were handed over to distribute to those in need. 

All were very generous including Mr. Jim Wilson, Moose Lodge Administrator, who arrived with a cheque in support of the cause.

Check Stop money important with helping victims of crime and tragedy

    Every coin, bill, toy and food item collected on December 14th will directly help others less fortunate. Victim Services Executive Director, Petra Pfeiffer states how important this fundraiser is. “As we approach the holiday season, the Charity Check Stop is a way for people and businesses in Wetaskiwin to show their compassion for people who are in need. The donations help us with offering assistance to victims of crime or a tragedy. The donations of food to the Salvation Army will provide meals for people that need help to get through the Christmas season. The donated toys bring many smiles and a great deal of joy to children through Secret Santa. We call this a friendly Check Stop.” 

 

Victim Services offers help to those in need throughout the year

    Although the Christmas holiday season is meant to be a happy and joyful time, this isn't necessarily how everyone feels at this time of the year. Christmas can be extremely stressful and depressing for many people. There are tragedies leading up to and during the holiday season and the pressures can also lead to victim abuse. Every year many people find added financial and time pressures, isolation from family and friends, loss of family and friends, separation and divorce. Some reflect on not being able to supply their family with an adequate meal. These are all very difficult to manage. 

Missed the Charity Check Stop 

it’s not too late to help.

    Victim Services be accepting cash donations and the Salvation Army will accept food donations and toys for Secret Santa throughout the entire holiday season.

    It’s easy and convenient to make a donation by going to Victim Services website www.victimserviceswetaskiwin.ca , click on ‘Donate” and choose either of the following options:

(1) General Donation: If you would like to make a general donation, you can fill out the General Donation PDF form and drop it off or send it to the address shown on the website.

(2) Online Donation: You can make both a general or memorial donation online with your credit card by clicking on   CanadaHelps.org 

    Victim Services and the Salvation Army are grateful to the kind and caring donors who participated in the Charity Check Stop.

    For more information, to volunteer or to make a donation to Victim Services phone (780) 312-7287 or visit Victim Services in the Wetaskiwin RCMP Detachment.