Twenty-two years of bringing Smiles to Seniors during the holidays
December 23, 2022 - Defence Stories
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It’s a wrap! CAF and CFMWS Volunteers smiling after finishing their packing of gifts and goody bags !
Christmas elves from across the Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group (CAF TG), Canadian Morale & Welfare Services (CFMWS), corporate Canada and elementary school students joined forces once again this year to make sure residents at the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre in Ottawa were not forgotten during the holidays. Santa’s sleigh, or in this case Santa’s SUV, made the delivery on December 13th!
CAF TG and CFMWS volunteers led the charge and packaged up more than 100 goody bags and 50 wrapped gifts for residents and nursing stations. A total amount of $1,655 was collected from employees across the CAF TG and CFMWS to purchase gifts for residents, and employees provided additional wrapped gifts.
Gift packages included a variety of items donated by CANEX, extra items not used by Op Santa, and donations from the Ottawa Redblacks and Good Soldier Films. Generous discounts provided by Giant Tiger allowed the team to purchase the gifts for the seniors as well as items like toiletries, snacks and games which are most desired by residents. L’École élémentaire Massé de Gatineau also provided more than 100 illustrated Christmas stories from students.
Special thanks and kudos to the dedicated team for their efforts, along with a shout-out to all those who donated items or provided discounts. There was free parking from Bona Building & Management for volunteers.
The “Smiles for Seniors” holiday initiative has been in place since 2000, with many staff members participating since it was first launched.
Happy holidays everyone!