Wrapping gifts for a great cause

By Daniel Taylor

BELLEVILLE – When it comes to wrapping holiday gifts it seems as though there’s never enough time. But thanks to Community Care for South Hastings, there’s no need to worry.

Community Care is offering a wrapping service for shoppers at the Quinte Mall with all proceeds going to programs for seniors and adults with disabilities. Sarah Doiron, co-ordinator of volunteers for the organization, says the fundraiser aims to help others in need.

People who stop by to get gifts wrapped are asked a donation, the size of which depends on the size of the gift.

“All the proceeds go towards the programs that we run for seniors and adults with disabilities,” Doiron said.

Two main programs being supported by the gift-wrapping service are Meals on Wheels and medical transportation.

Last year the gift-wrapping fundraiser raised $9,000, providing meals to people in Belleville and the surrounding areas as well as medical transportation for senior citizens.

“Last year we fed more than 45,000 meals to people in Belleville and the surrounding areas through Meals on Wheels,” Doiron said. “And medical transportation allows people to get to their appointments without bothering their kids who have to work, and allows them not to ignore any medical problems that might be existing. ”

The gift-wrap volunteers say they truly enjoy giving back, and understand the importance of helping others.

“I’m a senior myself, and of course many of the volunteers, men and women, are seniors,” said Judy Preiss. “I’m lucky I don’t need the services, but many do. And every penny counts these days, so it’s a very important cause, to say the least, and fun for all of us to be a part of.”

The gift-wrapping kiosk is located immediately inside the front doors of the Quinte Mall between Sportchek and Mappins. It is open from now until Dec. 23. Volunteer wrappers are always welcome.