Last Spring, the Radio-Canada tv show C’est ça la vie recognized our Great Elf Sylvain’s volunteer spirit by awarding him the first prize in its Une chance qu’on l’a contest : a trip to Vancouver! So this early November, Sylvain flew off to the Pacific coast along with Antoine the Elf.
Beyond Stanley Park, the mountains, Chinatown and Granville Island, our Elves took advantage of the opportunity to visit Dr Peter Centre, a renowned organization where the Little Elves have been sending gifts for years. Dr Peter provides a 24 room residence and a day health program which helps hundreds of clients each day.
Our Elves got a very thorough visit, accompanied by Patrick McDougall, project and communications officer, and Dianne Simpson, therapies coordinator. When they arrived, the cafeteria was bustling with activity as about eighty high nutrition meals are being served there each day. Antoine and Sylvain shook hands with a number of people who have received the Foundations’ gifts in the past and who seemed very happy to be able to thank them in person. Another unforgettable moment was the visit of the two floors housing the residents where a fluffy balck cat keeps everyone company. The rooms are occupied by a varied clientèle at every stage of the disease. A resident insisted on showing the cosy room he has lived in for years.
& Antoine Gélinas
Executive director Maxne Davis also met with our Elves. She explained how important the gifts are to her clients who often fear that no one thinks of them outside of the Centre.
The Elves Sylvain and Antoine return from the West Coast, bringing a renewed energy to accomplish this season’s mission. Their conviction is stronger than ever that a gift, no matter how small, can be enough to bring hope to those for whom the Holidays are not so bright.
