Saint John has stepped up in a big way to help less fortunate and vulnerable adults in the community.
The second annual Holiday in a Box campaign, organized by the Saint John Police Force, wrapped up Thursday.
Residents and businesses were challenged to fill undecorated shoeboxes with essential items and gifts.
By the time the month-long campaign was over, a record 675 holiday boxes had been collected, along with 200 additional gift cards.
“Our country is facing many challenges with respect to social issues and supporting those that are most in need. Saint John is no different,” said police Chief Robert Bruce.
Bruce said the need for this type of initiative continues to grow, and this year it seemed to be even more visible to everyone in the community.
“This program won’t change the world, however, it does send a strong and compelling message to everyone, especially during this time of year when people sometimes feel disconnected and isolated,” he said.
Bruce said Exhibition Park donated the proceeds from two of its bingos, which allowed police to purchase 200 additional gift cards as part of the campaign.
Representatives from each of the city’s five priority neighbourhoods, who will distribute the boxes, were on hand for Thursday’s wrap-up event.
Jen Brown Oliver, executive director of the Carleton Community Centre, said they are beyond grateful for the support during what is a busy time of year.
Brown Oliver said there is always a concern that donations will not meet the need, especially this year with inflation impacting so many people.
“Saint John can be a little last-minute sometimes, and then when it’s called and we’re at the tail end of it, people start responding and it becomes extremely gracious of our community. They always step up to meet the challenge that is set,” said Brown Oliver.
Other organizations involved include the Crescent Valley Resource Centre, P.U.L.S.E. Inc., ONE Change, and the Waterloo Village Neighbourhood Association.
The 2nd annual Holiday in a Box campaign organized by @saintjohnpolice was another big success.
675 holiday boxes filled with essentials and gifts were collected, along with 200 additional gift cards.
They’ll be distributed to less fortunate and vulnerable adults in #SaintJohn. pic.twitter.com/QWlNDerxhU
— Brad Perry (he/him) (@BradMPerry) December 16, 2022
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