Press Release - September 08, 2023

Aware of the wildfire occurring in BC, seniors of Gaia Cares’ Adult Day Program located at the Grace Neighbourhood Centre in Burnaby, want to raise funds for those who are negatively impacted by the wildfires, with donations to go to the British Columbia Fire Appeal of the Canadian Red Cross.

On Thursday, September 7, with flowers generously donated by a farm, 11 seniors, using the skills they have learned in the Day Program, put together 22 arrangements that were quickly snapped up by 16 individuals from the community, raising $2,400. Such enthusiastic response has touched an anonymous supporter, who wants to match the donation, bringing the amount of funds raised to $4,800. Gaia Cares hopes that this inspiring story will arouse others to remember the ongoing hardship of those who are affected by the wildfires. 

Mrs. Ma, a senior of the program said, “As Canadians, we have to help each other, especially in such a crisis. As seniors, we do what we can.” Mrs. Ma at the age of 83, made several floral arrangements and personally donated $200.

Percy Wong, Executive Director of Gaia Cares (Gaia Community Care and Wellness Society, gccws.ca) is amazed at such a positive outcome. “It’s been only about 10 days that this idea came about, but the seniors and their caregivers are so positive about getting involved. It is so affirming that despite their old age, they want to be part of the society, to help other Canadians."  

Ms. Margaret Chow, Vice President of Gaia Cares, concurred “The seniors feel very proud of what they can do for the society… that gives them an identity as a Canadian.” The original goal is to raise $3,000, now reaching close to $5,000. She hopes that the community will donate to contribute to this fundraising initiative by going to this link: www.redcross.ca/2023BCFiresAppeal/gccws  

For information about Gaia Cares Adult Day Program, please go to https://gccws.ca/sadp/