November 30 is Giving Tuesday, a day set aside around the world to show support for charities making a difference in the lives of our most vulnerable. For L'Arche Hamilton, this year it is Giving TWOsday, because one of our generous donors has agreed to match the first $2500 we raise by the end of day Nov 30. That means your donation of $50 will result in $100 for our charity!
For 43 years, L'Arche Hamilton has worked to support those with Intellectual Disabilities and celebrate their many gifts throughout our city. In five permanent, family-like homes in the Sherman Hub area of Hamilton, those with intellectual disabilities and those who come to assist, all live, work and learn together. We create communities of friendship and belonging. Our vibrant day program, now reduced in size and outreach because of Covid-19, has long been a place of artistic creation in our Creative Hands Art Studio.
What makes L'Arche different than other developmental service agencies is that we don't just "care for" those in need. We know that each of us has so very much to gain by simply "being with" each other. That's why you will find us throughout the city, together. We live in homes together, eat at the same dinner table with the same food, we share the daily duties, chores, challenges and joys of life. We value the life-changing relationships between those with and without intellectual disabilities that unfold within, and an environment that is inclusive, secure and with dignity for all.
Covid-19 has brought so many challenges to us. Many of the city programs those we support once attended are now cancelled. Open houses, festivals and art exhibits are slowly returning but are often not suitable for the public health requirements of our highly vulnerable sector. Feelings of isolation and missing familiar routines and connections are very real.
L'Arche Hamilton has been responding by finding new, innovative and safe ways to engage in our city. Much of this has gone virtual. Some involves significant renovations to our facilities to enhance safety like air filtration and physical protective barriers. Our very mandate is to celebrate the many gifts of those with intellectual disabilities in our city and Covid-19 has been a formidable foe in our achievement of this mandate. But we continue to work to ensure those with intellectual disabilities live a full, rich, engaged life in our city. This Giving TWOsday, we ask for your financial support to ensure a community full of friendship, belonging and inclusivity. And remember, with this matching donation, your gift now can do even more.
Thank you, we are so grateful for you.
