The magic of the holidays is at its peak in the Canadian community at SHAPE and when we are talking about holiday magic, we are also talking about generosity and mutual aid. Let me tell you how a local non-profit organisation (NPO) capsized my heart when I had just moved to Europe last year. “Avec Vous Ensemble” (Together with you) is an NPO in Mons (near SHAPE) which opened more than five years ago. Managed by Teresa, a Polish woman who has been living in Belgium for many years, this center welcomes anyone in need during the week. Every Wednesday morning, Teresa and her team of volunteers distribute food packages as well. Of a very warm and welcoming nature, Teresa has a heart of gold and gives without hesitation. If you choose to go there and say hello, you will be offered cupcakes and coffee. For many years now, the Canadian SHAPE community has been involved with this NPO during the holiday season. As they are always looking for volunteers and particularly supplies, we benefit from our generosity to help them during this period
As the cause touched our hearts last year when we went to visit Teresa and her center, this year Sgt Martine Lebœuf and I took over the responsibility from a Canadian lady who returned to Canada. Determined to carry on a tradition, we launched an appeal to our entire community to collect boxes of chocolate and all kinds of clothing for people in need. The boxes of chocolate will go in their food package for the week of St. Nicholas. Everyone deserves a little sweetness during the holiday season! We gathered almost 50 boxes of chocolate and many bags of clothing, including winter clothes and accessories. What a joy to see Teresa light up when Martine, Christina (volunteered) and I came to bring her the donations. An outburst of “Thank you!” and warm embraces was all we needed to leave with a light heart filled with joy. I feel very close to my community and especially very proud to be Canadian when we stand together, but particularly when we reach out to our neighbors and give to others. The partnership between the Canadians at SHAPE and the NPO “ Avec Vous Ensemble” can only continue to grow and prosper in the future, I'm sure! During this holiday season, I would like to recommend you give generously and specifically to get involved locally, it could change your life!