Giving Tuesday is a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities and support causes they care about. It takes place annually on the Tuesday following American Thanksgiving, which typically falls in late November. The day was created in 2012 as a response to the commercialization of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, aiming to shift the focus from consumerism to generosity.
It’s a great opportunity to think globally but to act locally, to help others and support meaningful causes in your community. Specifically here at Purpose Society, there are a couple of much needed programs that are making a big positive impact in New Westminster, Burnaby and beyond:
Harm Reduction and our Health Contact Centre:
December is a very difficult time for those struggling with addiction.
In each December of the last 5 years the number of overdose deaths due to a toxic drug supply has increased each and every year, in British Columbia.
Unregulated Drug Deaths in British Columbia, December 2019 – 2023 (statistics from BC Coroners Service):
- December 2019: 62
- December 2020: 167
- December 2021: 229
- December 2022: 234
- December 2023: 236
- December 2024: ???
More information about how Purpose Society is helping prevent further deaths and suffering in our local community, please visit:
https://purposesociety.org/events/categories/health-programs/overdose-crisis-response/hcc/
Food Distribution:
Our Food Hamper and Food Distribution Friday’s need community supports and funding to help our neighbours who are facing a shortage of calories and healthy food options. Please visit our Food Distribution webpage for more information:
https://purposesociety.org/events/categories/health-programs/food-insecurity/food-hampers/