ONE of the encouraging signs that this is a brighter Christmas than last rests with the number of people accessing the Terrace Churches Food Bank.
Demand has been consistently lower this fall and early winter compared to 2012, reports the food bank’s John Wiebenga.
In November the food bank distributed 120 fewer bags than in November 2012 and this month, 80 fewer bags were distributed compared to December 2012.
(Mr. Wiebenga does note that baby food supplies are low – something easily added to your cart when buying those last minute Christmas food items.)
There’s similar news from the Salvation Army – 460 households registered this year for Christmas hampers, a drop of 501 from Christmas 2012.
While it may be too early to determine if this is a trend that will continue, the optimistic hope is that lower numbers reflect a growth in local employment thanks to a reviving regional economy.
More people working means a healthier and happier population, something that has been in short supply in the northwest over the past decade and a half.
It’s something to think about this Christmas season.
Our hope is that this holiday season gives you joy and comfort now and in the days ahead in however you celebrate.