What is expected to be the worst winter for food insecurity in Canadian history is now upon us. Residents who never had to ask for help before find themselves reaching out, including families with two working adults. Seniors are also having to make tough choices between buying groceries or paying for medications. That’s why SOS’s Winter Emergency Fund is such a lifesaver, providing vouchers for groceries, propane and other basic needs to support residents who are experiencing hardship. To make a difference this winter, donate on our website, call us or come by our Community Services Center in Parksville. Thank you.

Baby, it’s cold outside! Be sure to protect yourself against the weather and slippery conditions during these chilly months. Older adults tend to be more susceptible to the cold because of reductions in body fat, so please make sure you dress warmly if you’re venturing out. Also, wear waterproof shoes or boots with good soles that will keep you from slipping on icy surfaces. Be mindful of space heaters in your home, as they can be a fire hazard. Better wear that fetching sweater you’ve been saving! We’ve just had fall prevention month, so let’s keep that going all winter long!

Do you suffer from ‘unwanteds’ on your skin that keep you from enjoying life to the fullest? Covering them up can be time consuming and often does not provide satisfactory results. Laser Skin Rejuvenation helps take away the need to cover up those pesky veins on your nose, chin or cheeks and can remove/fade spots that come with the privilege of growing older. Laser Skin Rejuvenation can help remove: *Age & Sun Spots, *Dull Skin, *Pigmentation, *Rosacea, *Broken Capillaries/Veins, *Fine Lines & Wrinkles and *Freckles. Removing ‘unwanteds’ from your skin allows your true beauty to shine through and increases your emotional & mental well-being.

For 55 years, the SOS Caring for Community at Christmas program has been creating the magic of Christmas for local residents in need. With community support, we can make sure local children and youth wake up to find a special gift under their tree on Christmas morning. Families and individuals will receive grocery store gift cards so they can choose food that is important to them. You can support the program with a financial donation. Help fill the SOS Toy Shop by donating a new, unwrapped gift. For more information on how to support the program or to register, visit the SOS website.

In December we honour people who are differently abled in our communities. The United Nations launched the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy in 2019, with a focus on inclusive practices and policies; most importantly, in supporting employment opportunities and reducing inequality generally. If you are a differently abled person looking for opportunities to work, connect and be supported in your community, contact the Nanaimo Disability Resource Centre to learn about their commitment to the UN Inclusion Strategy. They provide services like smartphone/laptop support, connecting people with applications for disability and pension programs and getting an accessible parking permit.