As the autumn leaves change their colours and the first hints of snow dust the surrounding hills, we are reminded that the holiday season is fast approaching. However, for many individuals and families in our local communities, the weeks ahead are not filled with the promise of joy and celebration. The cumulative effects of soaring living costs and various family-related difficulties have placed immense pressure on the shoulders of many within our community. With each passing day, the requests for support continue to rise, and despite our best efforts, the demand for assistance remains unrelenting.
That is why we once again turn to you for your support. Last year, your generosity made our Empty Bowls and Baskets fundraiser a tremendous success, raising a grand total of $75,100, every single dollar of which remained right here in our community. Your contribution was instrumental in addressing critical yet chronically underfunded programs, allowing us to make a meaningful impact in our communities.
Over the past 3 years, we have been incredibly fortunate to have a generous community member who graciously matched funds for our fundraiser. Unfortunately, they will not be providing us with matching funds this year, so we are reaching out to all of our community members to please support your local non-profit working right here in your communities to provide support to those who need it most.
With great gratitude for your past support, we are asking for your support once again. From November 1st to December 15th, we will be hosting our fourth annual online Empty Bowls and Baskets fundraiser. Our goal this year is to once again raise a total of $75,000. The fundraiser is a true testament to where every dollar you contribute will remain right here in Oliver, Osoyoos, and OK Falls, directly benefiting the children, families, and individuals in our communities who are in need of our support.
You have the option to allocate your funds to a specific Desert Sun Program as outlined in the enclosed information, or you can entrust us to direct your contribution to the area of greatest need. Your generosity has a lasting impact on our community, providing hope and support where it is needed most.
We understand that times are tough for everyone, so any contribution, big or small, makes a significant difference. Together, we can make a positive change in the lives of those who are struggling.
Wishing you a joyous holiday season ahead!