Holiday Spirit in Action: Supporting Seniors and Families in Need

In this holiday-themed episode of Strait Talk, Civic Journalist Jake Boudrot attended two community events in early December focused on supporting seniors facing social isolation and raising funds for families dealing with financial challenges.

On Dec. 4, volunteers gathered at Our Lady of Assomption Hall in Arichat. Members of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) and other community helpers assembled boxes filled with cookies, cakes, and candies. These treats were delivered to seniors on Isle Madame, particularly those living alone or in need of companionship during the holiday season.

After the boxes were prepared and deliveries began, Boudrot spoke with CWL members Diane Samson and Brenda Boudreau.

Samson shared that around 20 volunteers created 90 boxes this year.

“Last year when we delivered the boxes, I think the best part of it was our company because a lot of people’s families live away and they don’t get as many visitors as they used to,” she said. “When you’re aging, your family moves away, and everyone is busy, so I think they probably enjoyed our company more than the sweets.”

Boudreau explained that the delivery list includes seniors who are sick, isolated, or former CWL members.

“It’s mostly focused on isolated seniors,” she noted. “They enjoyed the visit, and that’s why we did it again this year.”

On Dec. 7, Boudrot attended another event at Charles Forest Co-op in Arichat, where the Isle Madame Volunteer Fire Department and the Richmond County District RCMP held a food drive supporting the Isle Madame Food Bank.

During the event, he spoke with RCMP Cpl. Tyler Arsenault and Isle Madame Deputy Fire Chief Cody Forrest.

Arsenault emphasized the importance of community engagement.

“It’s much like many communities across Canada — everyone needs to get involved. This is a hard time of year for some families,” he said.

Forrest expressed hope that the initiative would continue for years to come.

“We all serve in emergency services to help people — the RCMP, EHS — so whatever we can do to support the community, we’re always ready to do it,” he added.