And the Community Came Together as the People stayed Apart

And the Community Came Together as the People Stayed Apart
By Area B CVRD Director Sierra Acton


This is a challenging time globally as well as for our communities. In the midst of the escalating impacts of COVID-19 on our communities around the Valley we have all come together to help families, friends and neighbours. I am touched by the many acts of kindness and stories of community spirit being shared in South Cowichan.


In Shawnigan we have learned how to mobilize community quickly and efficiently even in the face of challenging new times like this. The Starfish Program and Nourish Cowichan have partnered with School District 79 to deliver food to families who depended on the lunch programs and food banks. This partnership is working to deliver much needed support with respect and dignity while keeping everyone safe through proper social distancing protocols. The Shawnigan Residents Association (SRA) and iloveshanwigan.com have come together quickly to help raise funds to support this effort. The fundraiser is centred around the Heart lawn sign which is available via contribution at www.thesra.ca/hearts. The only expense is the lawn sign itself, 100% of the proceeds will go to these local charities and the signs are being delivered and installed by community volunteers practicing social distancing. Don’t delay; this campaign will close shortly. Email iloveshawnigan@gmail.com if you would like to volunteer installing signs (completely on your own).

By the time you read this, the fundraiser will be well under way. The lawn sign represents love to the whole community, gratitude to the frontline workers and hope to all for our future as a world and a community. The first weekend we exceeded our weekend goal of $5,000 and we are on our way to the total campaign goal of $20,000. But we still need your help! Please consider purchasing a sign for your lawn or a location that will be highly visible. Some people have chosen to donate theirs to local businesses or essential services stations. We realize these uncertain times are hard for everyone and thank you in advance for your generosity.


I would like to thank all the businesses and citizens who have made sacrifices to shut down and stay home to keep our community safe and healthy. Together we will get through this and come out of it stronger. I have 3 pieces of advice; go out in Nature everyday, try to do something kind everyday and connect with your friends and neighbours (virtually of course). I am here should you have any questions or concerns. Together we have proven our strength, compassion and community spirit. We are in This Together!

Sierra.Acton@cvrd.bc.ca
(250) 715-6763 call/text
FB @AreaDirectorAreaB
iloveshawnigan.com

---