Time is a valuable commodity and the Canadian Cancer Society is hoping Nanaimo and area residents have some to spare.
The society kicks off its 75th annual door-to-door Daffodil Month campaign April 1, and Sue Carlson, Nanaimo/Ladysmith campaign coordinator, is in desperate need of canvassers.
“Getting enough canvassers is always a concern each year, but this year it’s a major concern,” she said. “We need people to phone, people to go door-to-door … we just need help.”
The daffodil campaign is a major fundraiser alongside the Relay for Life and Tour de Rock Cops for Cancer. Money raised in the community stays in the community for research and support services for those living with cancer.
“The campaign is the one way to meet face-to-face with people and tell them how they can get the help and information,” said Carlson, a cancer survivor. “So many of the people who canvass have lived with cancer and therefore are giving back. It allows others to talk to people who have been there.”
There are no parameters on the amount of volunteer time required. Carlson said they will take anything anyone can give.
“If someone only has a couple of hours to offer between the first and thirtieth of April we would love it,” she said. “If someone can take a kit to their work or put up a notice in a multi-family dwelling it’s another opportunity for the public to give. “
Carlson said they are trying to reach all communities in the society’s service area.
“There might not be a Canadian Cancer Society office in a community, but services are still provided,” she said.
Anyone wanting to help can call 250-741-8180, e-mail midislandd2d@bc.cancer.ca or drop by the cancer unit at 777 Poplar St., next to the News Bulletin.
The society’s door-to-door canvass campaign is also short of volunteers in Nanoose.
Those not comfortable knocking on doors can also take part in online canvassing.
For more information, please call Hugh Baker at 250-468-1820.