The We Love Delta holiday boxes were such a popular item in the community during the Christmas season that all mystery gift boxes sold in two hours.
The campaign, led by Tourism Delta, was an initiative to foster community resilience and promote local businesses by filling each box with a variety of local products and services.
Each holiday box cost $100 to purchase but was valued at approximately $250.
The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority on behalf of the Port of Vancouver was presenting sponsor of the campaign in large part because of its ongoing support for Reach Child and Youth Development Society. The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority along with port partners at the Port of Vancouver have been supporting Reach for many years.
“Like everyone who purchased a holiday box, we want to help ensure that children with special needs get the critical services they need and deserve in a safe, effective and timely manner—especially during these challenging times,” said Evangeline Englezos, Director, Community and Government Relations for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. “Sponsoring this campaign was one way we could show our support.”
Jane Stark, Tourism Delta board chair said they were overwhelmed and heart-warmed by the response.
“Part of our role with Delta’s Community Resilience and Economic Recovery Support Team is to find ways to bring both our community at-large and business community together, especially during challenging times such as these,” said Stark. “The Holiday Box was a way to bring some joy and excitement to residents, highlight some of our local businesses and give back to an organization that serves one of our more vulnerable populations.”
Naturally, Reach Child and Youth Development Society was touched by the generosity.
“Reach Child and Youth Development Society and the families we serve send heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, donors and purchasers of the We Love Delta Holiday Box,” said executive director Renie D’Aquila. “We are grateful to have been selected as the beneficiary of this initiative to stimulate the local economy during the pandemic. Presenting sponsor, the Port of Vancouver, has been committed to children with developmental disabilities at Reach for many years and we recognize Tourism Delta and their partners for this generous donation to support local children with needs.”
