Essex Centre BIA provides a little financial help headed into the holidays

by Sylene Argent

As a way to give back to the community and show support to two great causes that are extra busy around the holidays, the Essex Centre BIA forwarded monetary donations to the Essex Area Food Bank and the Essex Salvation Army last Thursday afternoon.

  This annual show of support provides a bit of a financial boost to these two local organizations that offer programs and services to area families and individuals in need throughout the year.

  Major Sam Roberts of the Essex Salvation Army gratefully received the donation amidst the church’s annual Christmas Kettle campaign that was officially kicked off at the November 23 Essex Centre Tree Lighting event. The Salvation Army and Essex Centre BIA teamed-up to present the event to the community.

  Roberts said the Essex Salvation Army is looking to collect $80,000 this holiday season through its Kettle and Letter campaigns. The funds collected will be used to support area families and individuals in need through a variety of programs, including its food bank, throughout the year.

  Essex Area Food Bank volunteer Gerry Belanger was also grateful for the donation. He said the Essex Area Food Bank volunteers are as busy as elves right now, putting together holiday bundles for its Christmas program.

  Food Bank volunteers rolled up their sleeves to prepare 90 toy and gift card bundles for area youths and thirty-three Christmas meals for families and individuals facing economic stress.

  The beginning of the holiday season is a popular time for donations to get forwarded to the Essex Area Food Bank. Those donations add up and help the Food Bank continue to feed its clients throughout the year.

  Donations to the Essex Area Food Bank and Salvation Army are welcome throughout the year. Donations made outside the holiday season helps rejuvenate the stock on its shelves so its clients can continue to get served throughout the year.