You Are Not Alone is excited to be selected to benefit from a new Tim Hortons fundraiser, in a time when costs are getting even more pinched.
The charity says they have been selected to receive donations through the first-ever Holiday Smile Cookie Campaign.
Running until Sunday, 100 per cent of the proceeds from each smile cookie sold will go directly to YANA. The charity provides financial services for Comox Valley families when they need to travel to access medical care for a child under 19-years-old or pregnant women.
Executive director Kelly Barnie says it was really special feeling to find out that they were selected for the fundraiser. She adds the support is welcomed, especially with the rising cost of travel and food.
“We’re so grateful for the support we receive but the cost definitely has been skyrocketing. The cost of hotels is absolutely nuts everywhere,” said Barnie.
“You can imagine getting that news as a parent that you are having to head to Victoria and you are going to be there for three weeks. One little search online is going to tell you how devastating that would be if you didn’t have support.”
She adds that they are very grateful that their fundraising has been successful as money is tight and people are finding a way to be generous.
Barnie says they have helped around 200 clients in the last fiscal year and around 400 medical trips.
“With the cost rising, people that maybe wouldn’t have sought help before are in a situation where just making sure that someone’s got their back and they’ve got a little extra support,” added Barnie.
“We’re ready for it and we are able to continue providing that support because of the support through these fundraisers and donations that we receive in the community.”
The cookies are for sale at $1.50 each at all four Tim Hortons in the Comox Valley through Sunday.
Barnie adds that YANA is there for everyone, and it is a low barrier way to get help and support in a difficult time.
