The Orléans-Cumberland Community Resource Centre (OCCRC) needs your help. As in years past, the OCCRC plans to provide gift cards to local area grocery stores or a service at the food bank for area families experiencing financial hardship during this holiday season.
Last year, 550 families benefited from the program of which 46% were children. This year, the resource centre is hoping to meet the needs of even more families.
While several factors have contributed to the increase in demand for services, much of it is due to the impact inflation has had on the cost of living, especially the cost of groceries.
According to OCCRC executive director Jasmine Thibault, inflation has deepened the challenge for many local families to make it through the holiday season. The Christmas program, helps ease the stress and anxiety faced by many parents during these challenging times.
“It is difficult for many of these families,” says Thibault, “but thanks to the generosity of our donors they’ll be able to share a comforting meal with their family and, even for a moment, feel a sense of dignity and stability.”
More families needing help this year means there is an even greater need for donations.
There are several ways the community at large can participate in the program. Community members and local businesses can support in different ways. Support levels range from $125 to $400 for families of different sizes. Donation forms are available at www.crcoc.ca/en/christmas.
Individuals can also make a one-time donation to the program by visiting the OCCRC website.
The easiest way to access the page is to scan the QR code shown above. The link will take you to a page where you can download a fillable form or make a direct donation.
Funds are also being collected by the food bank to help stock the shelves for the busy holiday season. Ottawa area firefighters will be holding a food drive on Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at all three Metro stores in Orléans, the Sobeys stores at Trim Road and Innes and on Tenth Line Road, and the FreshCo store at Trim and Watters.
As of today, registration for the Christmas program is already at full capacity. Families or individuals who are still in need of assistance will be offered other means of support.
This year, with the assistance of area donors, the OCCRC can help make the holidays a little easier for those in our community who need it most.
SDBC TAPROOM SERIES presents Bytown Sea Shanty Collective X Rude Pizza Company live and in concert. Showtime 8 p.m. NO COVER The Stray Dog Brewing Company is located at 501 Lacolle Way in the Taylor Creek Business Park. For tickets visit 
55TH ANNUAL CUMBERLAND MAPLEFEST BREAKFAST from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lions Maple Hall in Cumberland Village. Enjoy pancakes with syrup, scrambled eggs, sausage, and beans. Tea/coffee/hot chocolate or juice (apple or orange) will also be available. Tickets: Adults 13+ $15. Children 6-12 $10. Children 5 and under FREE. 
CLOTHING SWAP EVENT from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Halls A & G at Bob MacQuarrie Recreational Center. Bring a reusable bag (or several) and some friends, and “shop” for new-to-you items at no cost. Don’t have items to contribute? No problem! By attending the event and picking up items you’ll use instead of buying brand new ones, you’re helping to protect the environment. 
TRIVIA NIGHT from 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday night at the Royal Oak Pub Orléans. Free to play. Prizes for the winning team! The Royal Oak Pub is located at 1981 St. Joseph Blvd. near Jeanne d'Arc. For more info visit 
TRIVIA NIGHT from 6:30 p.m. at the Stray Dog Brewing Company. Exercise your grey matter before it turns to mush over the holidays. Reservations are a must to secure your spot. Send your team name and number of people to info@straydogbrewing.ca. The Stray Dog Brewing Company is located at 501 Lacolle Way in the Taylor Creek Business Park.
