To the Editor,
Re: Order dissolves over lack of membership, Nov. 20
It is with sadness in my heart that I read your recent article about the dissolving of the Order of the Royal Purple after serving our community for 60 years. This fraternity of dedicated women has faithfully volunteered time and energy to raise funds for students in the school district. For 40 years it has provided annual scholarships and bursaries for graduating students. Its first donation, in 1974, was a $200 bursary; in June 2014 two Grade 12 graduates received scholarships of $1,000 each so they could pursue post-secondary education and a future ripe with endless possibilities.
Over the years, the Order of the Royal Purple has donated thousands of dollars to the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation so we could provide disadvantaged children with school supplies, clothing, gym shoes, food, and other necessities. Their generosity has brought comfort and hope to students touched by poverty and allowed them to focus on their learning.
On behalf of local school children, I offer my sincere gratitude to all the women of the Order of the Royal Purple who have volunteered so diligently and selflessly to make Nanaimo a better community.
Erin van Steenexecutive directorNanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation