Saanich — A Community that Cares

"I am deeply proud to live and work in a community as safe, welcoming and compassionate as Saanich. You truly get a sense that this is a place where people look out for one another and offer support whenever it’s needed.

"Now is one of those times. As we approach the holidays, we’re mindful of the fact that while it’s a joyous, relaxing time for many of us — for others it can be challenging and stressful.

"We all want to be able to provide a hearty holiday meal for our families, and gifts to make them smile. The fear of not being able to ‘do enough’ may have even given way to more dire concerns about not being able to pay the rent or not having any food in the cupboards at all. With people in need more than ever, let’s pull together and find ways to support our local organizations doing great work in our community.

"This is a big ‘ask’ amid tougher times, but these groups really do need our help so they can continue serving our most vulnerable neighbours. Giving doesn’t have to involve money or material items. We can also volunteer our time, energy and talents to these vital service groups. Even the little things matter. 

"Financial stress and uncertainty about the future are just some of the challenges people face over the holidays. There are many people in our community who have lost loved ones and experience loneliness and isolation this time of year. A quick phone call or visit can go a long way towards restoring their spirits.

"There are also many people in Saanich who are watching events unfold in the Middle East and are worried about the safety and protection of loved ones abroad. It’s hard to feel like celebrating in the face of conflict and war.

"These events are also having repercussions in our community, as our police department has responded to reports of racism, antisemitism, and Islamophobia. Hate and prejudice have no place in Saanich. We hold to our vision that this is a community where everyone belongs, feels safe and is welcome. 

"In times like this, we must come together and help those in need locally, as well as across the globe. For those of you who have family in the Middle East who have been harmed or are in danger as this conflict continues, I express the utmost empathy to you. I encourage everyone to please help others where you are able to, and to seek support for yourself as you need it. Here are some resources that can help:

Vancouver Island Counselling Centre for Immigrants and Refugees (VICCIR)
Home | VICCIR

Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre
Home | VIRCS

Inter-cultural Association of Greater Victoria
Inter-cultural Association of Greater Victoria – Help for Immigrants & Refugees | Settlement Services (icavictoria.org)

District of Saanich Community Services – Diversity and Equity
Diversity and Equity | District of Saanich

"On behalf of Saanich Council, I wish everyone well this holiday season. We look forward to continuing to work together to make Saanich a thriving and inclusive community now and into the future."

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Media Contact:
Saanich Communications
(250) 589-5100
media@saanich.ca