Locals Proving Why We Call Them “Heroes” This Holiday Season
One Rule: Kids Have to Get Themselves a Gift Too
Three organizations are coming together this winter to bring Holiday with a Hero to life.
The United Way of Simcoe Muskoka (UWSM) is partnering with Canadian Forces Base Borden and the Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions in the hopes of helping children who have suffered serious trauma have an unforgettable holiday season.
Holiday with a Hero pairs up 75 children from Simcoe and Muskoka with a local hero; that includes members of the military, police, paramedics and firefighters. The children and their hero will then be given a gift card so that the kids can, with the help of their hero, shop for family and friends. The only rule is that the child must also buy a gift for themselves.
“We know that the holidays can be a difficult time of year for many families, whether it is the impact of
poverty, the absence of loved ones or any number of circumstances,” said UWSM CEO Dale Biddell.
“Holiday with a Hero eases the burden on these children and families, while giving them a day they will
remember for years to come.”
Following the shopping trip, the children and their heroes will be transported, via a parade of emergency services vehicles, to a pancake breakfast and gift-wrapping party.
“Holiday with a Hero provides a perfect opportunity to support those in need, and to demonstrate the powerful links CFB Borden has with its community partners, links that go back over a century.” said Lieutenant-Colonel Charleen Coulbeck, CFB Borden Administration Officer. “Additionally, the event is an opportunity for children, our leaders of tomorrow, to interact in a positive way with uniformed personnel. This truly reinforces the idea of giving back to the community, the same community that CFB Borden is proud to call our home.”
If you would like to make a donation to the event, visit the Holiday with a Hero website. The event takes place on November 30th.
