This article appeared in the Delta Optimist on December 19.
For over 20 years, Delta Secondary School’s 20 Days of Giving campaign has been a cherished holiday tradition, uniting students, staff, and the local community to support families in need. This year, the campaign successfully gathered donations to create holiday hampers for 30 local families, filled with food, clothing, and gift cards.
Throughout the campaign, students and staff worked together to collect essential items. The local community also played a key role in this year’s success. The DSS Interact Club, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ladner, hosted a Food and Donation Drive at Ladner Save-On-Foods on December 3rd, raising over $1,500 in just 2.5 hours.
In addition, local organizations such as the Delta Firefighters Charitable Society and the DYSL-Delta Youth Support Link made generous contributions. Wallenius Wilhelmsen, a global shipping company, also made a significant donation, helping to ensure that each hamper was well-stocked. Several community members even “adopted” individual families, providing extra support to make their holidays even brighter.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the outpouring of generosity from our students, staff, local businesses, and community organizations,” said Colleen Blatz, campaign organizer at DSS. “This campaign has been a part of our school for over two decades, and it’s heartwarming to see how it continues to bring everyone together to support those in need.”
Thanks to the collective efforts of all involved, this year’s 20 Days of Giving campaign once again demonstrated the power of kindness, compassion, and community support, making the holiday season brighter for 30 local families. Collectively, the school gathered more than $21,000 worth of donations and would like to thank everyone who helped make this another successful year.