In this holiday-themed episode of Strait Talk, Civic Journalist Jake Boudrot attended two December events aimed at supporting the community: one focused on helping seniors facing social isolation, and the other was a fundraiser to assist residents grappling with affordability challenges.
On December 4, at the Our Lady of Assumption Hall in Arichat, members of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) and other volunteers gathered to assemble boxes filled with cookies, cakes, and candies for seniors on Isle Madame. The initiative also offered companionship during a time of year when many seniors need someone to talk to.
Members of the CWL reached out to Telile in late November to organize coverage of the event, which Boudrot attended.
After the boxes were prepared and as they were being delivered, Boudrot spoke with CWL members Diane Samson and Brenda Boudreau. Samson shared that around 20 volunteers had helped assemble 90 boxes this year.
“Last year when we delivered the boxes, I think the best part of it was our company,” Samson said. “A lot of people, their families live away, and they don’t get as many visitors as they used to. When you’re aging, of course, your family moves away and everyone is busy, so I think they probably enjoyed our company more than the sweets.”
Boudreau explained that the deliveries are intended for isolated seniors, including those who are ill or former CWL members.
“It’s mostly focused on isolated seniors,” she said. “They enjoyed the visit, and that’s why we did it again this year.”
On December 7, Boudrot covered another event at Charles Forest Co-op in Arichat, where the Isle Madame Volunteer Fire Department and Richmond County District RCMP organized a food drive for the Isle Madame Food Bank.
Prior to the event, Boudrot coordinated with the Richmond District RCMP and a member of the volunteer fire department to plan coverage and schedule interviews.
During the food drive, Boudrot spoke with RCMP Cpl. Tyler Arsenault and Isle Madame Deputy Fire Chief Codie Forrest.
Arsenault emphasized the importance of community involvement during the holiday season. “Much like many communities across Canada, it’s very important for everyone to get involved. It’s a hard time of year for some families,” he said.
Forrest expressed hope that the event would become an annual tradition. “We all do these emergency services to help people—the RCMP, EHS—so whatever we can do to help, we’re always game to do it,” he added.
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