Nanaimo RCMP officers and employees worked together for the detachment’s annual tradition of helping to make Christmas morning a little brighter for some families in Nanaimo.
Gathering presents for families at Christmas is a tradition at the detachment dating back at least 10 years. This Christmas, local Mounties and civilian staff managed to collect items for five families.
“The parents are wonderful because they really didn’t ask for anything for themselves … They wanted Christmas to be about their kids and have wonderful memories and we were just there to help them create those memories,” said reserve Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson.
He said the families aren’t victims of crime, but simply people who are struggling because of circumstances in their lives.
“They’re people who are just having a hard time for various reasons,” he said. “Some have medical issues. Others are unable to work because of injuries. Others just haven’t caught a break.”
He said everyone in the detachment finds a way to contribute, be it financially, wrapping gifts, or collecting donations of food coupons, coffee, and even turkeys from various businesses around town.
“We are fortunate to have jobs, a roof over our heads and food on our tables. Many don’t and for this reason, the detachment as a whole throws their collective energy behind this heartfelt initiative to make it a success,” O’Brien said.
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