Dear Friends,
As 2012 comes to a close, I reflect on this year as MLA for
Saanich South. I recall successes and challenges attendant with life as an
elected official trying to affect change in my community.
Another thought that arises during my reflections is that I
am so grateful for all that I have in my life: loving family, rewarding work,
and an ability to make a difference. None of which would be possible without
the basic human needs: shelter, safety and food.
Every year, hundreds of families spend their winter months
trying to meet these basic needs. We've all heard of the decision between food
and heat, or between food and medicine – but few of us really understand
what that decision feels like.
The solutions to poverty are complex and seemingly very
distant. We can do better, we all know that and we must all continue our
individual efforts to eliminate poverty.
In the meantime, we can – each of us – make poverty easier
to survive in many ways. Part of my effort is to host a food bank drive, at my
community office, throughout December. I
invite each of you to stop by my office; 4085 Quadra St (corner of Nicholson)
with a donation for those less fortunate than ourselves.
This year, we will be collecting for two different organizations:
the Mustard Seed Food Bank and Anawim House.
All non-perishable food items will be donated to the Mustard Seed. The
Anawim House is always in need of some very basic items: such as toothbrushes,
toothpaste and warm socks.
All donations collected at my office will be delivered on
December 20, 2012.
If you cannot make a donation, please consider volunteering
at food banks, meal programs, or for one of the many organizations that are
combating poverty.
"You will discover that you have two hands.
One is for helping yourself, the other is for helping others."
~Audrey Hepburn
Enjoy this song by Ben Harper, with Jack Johnson
Thank you!
Lana
