Silcotech challenges businesses to share spirit through giving

Silcotech North America has issued a challenge to Caledon businesses to get their workplaces involved to raise much-needed funds, food and children's gifts for the 200 needy families in the community.

The challenge is being extended to workplaces to benefit Caledon Community Services (CCS) and their annual Santa Fund drive. The gifts collected will be handed out at Christmas, but the food and cash donations are used not only to sustain the families through the holidays, but throughout the balance of the year.

"It seems natural to extend the fund-raising to the Santa Fund and get more businesses involved," said Isolde Boettger, vicepresident and owner of the firm. Boettger also urges "businesses to be generous and thoughtful at this time of year by helping our neighbours in need."

Workplace fund-raising events can be toonie Tuesdays, pizza lunches, silent auctions, draws or Fridays for Santa. The challenge ends Dec. 15.

Debbie Malevris, CCS director of resources, is excited about the challenge.

"Last year's challenge was a real help to the Santa Fund," she said. "At CCS we have always appreciated the business community's support and efforts on our behalf. It says a lot about where we live and work."

All donations to the Santa Fund are used to help those in need. While there are currently 200 registered families, their needs vary greatly. For some, their rent takes approximately 75% of their disposable income and they need assistance with food or prescription drugs. Some need help with shelter.

Some cannot cover their hydro bills. Some just need a doll. Due to the range of need, a blend of cash, food and toys is required to continue the good works the Crisis Department of CCS is doing. In addition to cash donations, gift certificates at local grocery stores are always well received.

Other recommended nonperishable items include lunch snacks, peanut butter, cheese whiz, canned fish and meat, disposable diapers, hygiene products and laundry detergent.

To register and be part of the wonderful holiday partnership, and to receive further information on how your business can experience the true spirit of the season, e-mail Sharon Bowker at sbowker@silcotech.ca or call Debbie Malevris at 905- 951-2300.