With the ongoing Canada Post strike causing disruption in holiday mail shipping, charities in Edmonton are expressing concern about potential impacts on those in need. As Albertans seek out alternative methods for sending their holiday mail, local charities are urging individuals not to overlook them, fearing the strike could affect many vulnerable people.
Earlier this week, Hope Mission, an Edmonton-based charity, sent a notice urging residents to make their donations via online or phone methods to ensure their contributions reach those who need them despite the labor disruptions. The organization’s donor relations manager, Kevin Wiebe, highlighted the potential delay of donations at a time when many are seeking hope and support, particularly the lonely and vulnerable neighbors without family to share the festive season with.
Hope Mission reported that its services are currently experiencing unprecedented demand. The final two months of the year are crucial for raising funds for holiday meals, winter shelters, and other programs. According to Wiebe, the charity, which served approximately 1,800 meals daily last year, is now preparing over 2,500 hot meals daily.
Another charity, 880 CHED Santas Anonymous, which delivers donated toys to over 20,000 children annually, raised about 30% of its million-dollar fundraising goal through cheques received by mail. The ongoing postal strike now poses a challenge to this donation method, according to Angel Benedict, the Executive Director.
The Christmas Bureau of Edmonton, which serves about 55,000 people through its Holiday Food Hampers and Adopt-A-Teen programs, also expressed concern. Approximately 79% of its donors give cheques and mail donations that rely on Canada Post services. Despite the strike, the organization remains hopeful that their contributions will be received in time for Christmas.
The Edmonton Food Bank, while recognizing the right of individuals to strike and supporting postal workers, acknowledges the impacts of the strike on its operations. The Food Bank usually sends newsletters and 20,000 festive brown bags to encourage donations during this period. Despite the strike, the Food Bank remains hopeful, encouraging residents to donate non-perishable food items or make monetary donations at grocery stores, fire halls, or the Edmonton Food Bank warehouse.
The ongoing Canada Post strike serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local charities, particularly during the festive season. Despite the challenges, these organizations remain resilient, committed to serving those in need, and hopeful for the continued support of the Edmonton community.
