017 - Global Heroes - December - 2022

A Deep Dive into Jason Momoa's Ocean Guardianship

RAYE MOCIOIU

While many talk a big game about taking on environmental issues, Jason Momoa makes waves—on-screen and off.

Ever since he was a child, Momoa has had a strong connection to the planet. Born in Hawaii and raised in Iowa, Momoa fell in love with the ocean as a child and looked for every opportunity to return to it, even pursuing environmental studies to further his knowledge and passion for the earth.

Now, years later, Momoa is best known for his role as Aquaman in the Justice League and DC Extended Universe films—but his love for the ocean began well before the cameras started rolling.

From a young age, Momoa wanted his life to revolve around the ocean. Growing up in Iowa, he recalled putting up posters of surfers in his locker and becoming interested in environmental studies—even attending a specialized camp in the Florida Keys one summer. After finishing high school, he returned to Honolulu, where he got his acting break on the beaches of Hawaii.

A more perfect role couldn’t have existed for Momoa…until Aquaman, that is.

In the Justice League films and the Aquaman film franchise, marine biology student Arthur Curry warns of disaster looming on the horizon while his superhe ro alter-ego Aquaman laments as pollution destroys the skies and the ocean, laying the blame on the behaviour of humankind. It’s a thinly veiled fictional meta phor for a very real problem and one that Momoa finds himself perfectly aligned with.

Between his on-camera roles, his sustainable businesses, and his becoming United Nations Environment Programme's (UNEP) Advocate for Life Below Water, Momoa has become our real-life Aquaman, and he’s only just beginning his mission to save our oceans.

“This is a subject that I am extremely passionate about, and if I have the power to do something about it, why wouldn’t I? It’s not in me to sit back and do nothing. I want to make a positive change," Momoa said.

THE FIGHT FOR OCEAN PROTECTION

In June of this year, Momoa was designated the UNEP’s Advocate for Sustainable Development Goal 14, Life Below Water. The aim: to work with the global and scientific communities to raise awareness and accelerate crucial action and funding to help the UN tackle the threat posed by the triple planetary crisis of climate change crises, biodiversity loss, and extreme pollution.

“My passion since I was a little boy has been saving the planet,” explained Momoa. “To join UNEP as their advocate for Life Below Water means I get to be Aquaman in real life. It allows me to use my superpowers for good. I have a platform that I can use to advocate for things close to my heart.”

His advocacy has led him to fight single-use plastic pollu tion, something he describes as his life’s mission. Seeking a plastic-free lifestyle, Momoa works on a range of plastic-free alternatives, from water bottles to personal care products.

“While everything is important, the time for change when it comes to our environment is now,” Momoa continued. “We have a

lot of work to do, and I want to help inspire others to make posi tive changes for our planet and future generations.”

Future generations are at front of mind for Momoa, who takes pride in how young people, including his own children, are stepping up to the plate in a bolder, more informed way than previous generations, making their voices heard when it comes to climate change and the state of our planet.

“Seeing my babies and their generation take a stand and do something about it is beauti ful,” he shared, “I spoke in my designation speech at the United Nations Ocean Conference in Portugal, and they were right by my side. They know I am terrified of giving speeches. It was a true honour to speak from my heart on a subject that I’m deeply passionate about. My babies were unexpectedly asked a question, and they both spoke beautifully—it was a wonderful moment and true honour that we’ll never forget.”

Since its inception in 1972, UNEP has been the global authority that sets the environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the UN system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment.

Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, UNEP works closely with its 193 Member States and representatives from civil society, businesses, and other major groups and stakeholders to address environmental challenges through

the UN Environment Assembly, the world’s highest-level decisionmaking body on the environment.

UNEP’s mission is to provide leadership and encourage partner ship in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life with out compromising that of future generations. UNEP works on de livering transformational change for people and nature by drilling down on the root causes of the three planetary crises of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste.

Through its campaigns, like World Environment Day, Beat Pollution, and Clean Seas, UNEP raises awareness and advocates for effective environmental action. One of UNEP’s priority areas is to reduce single-use, unnecessary, and harmful plastics while accel erating design and waste manage ment solutions that keep plastics out of the environment and in the economy, a mission that Momoa himself is working to achieve.

Earth is the “blue planet,” with waters covering about 70 per cent of the planet, yet we know more about the face of the moon than we do about our oceans. Today, only about 20 per cent of the ocean has been explored, and 91 per cent of its species remain undescribed. The health of the ocean is essential to life on Earth. Our oceans provide half of the oxygen that we breathe. They regulate weather patterns to grow our food on land and play a crucial role in climate stability by absorbing 90 per cent of the heat produced by human activity since preindustrial

THE CLEAN SEAS CAMPAIGN

times—the earth would be much hotter without them. Its coral reefs are home to 25 per cent of marine life, which provides jobs and food for at least a billion people.

While a healthy ocean is crucial to life on Earth, it is in serious trouble. Rising temperatures are changing habitats where marine an imals thrive. Carbon overloads are causing acidification and disrupting the natural balance. This will have serious consequences for its produc tivity and our food security.

According to World Meteorological Organization, four key measures of climate change— ocean acidification, greenhouse gas concentration, sea level rise, and ocean temperature—were all higher in 2021 than ever before.

An estimated 11 million metric tons of plastic flowed into our aquatic ecosystems, and 80 per cent of wastewater was untreat ed, largely flowing to our water bodies. The continuous growth in the amount of solid waste thrown away, the lack of recycling world wide (approximately only eight per cent), and the prolonged rate of degradation of most items are leading to an increase in marine litter found at sea, on the seafloor, and on coastal shores. It is an economic, environmental, human health, and aesthetic problem posing a complex and multi-di mensional challenge.

"The world is on fire,” Momoa said somberly. “Huge rivers across the globe are drying up, droughts are lasting decades, and icebergs are melting. The cli mate, biodiversity and pollution emergency is happening before our eyes, and it’s on us to create change. The time to act is now.”

REAL-LIFE HEROICS

As ocean literacy improves and awareness increases, we have both the scientific knowledge and the know-how to take action and make a change—but we can only succeed if leaders pay attention, and that will happen when people pay attention. The good news is that Momoa, with his on and off-camera charisma and unmistakable booming voice, is perfectly poised to bring awareness where it needs to be— starting with the industries that produce the most plastic waste.

“Several companies dominate the beverage and packaging indus tries, and to create the change we want, we need those companies to lead,” he explained. “I will en courage those companies to shift to business models that are more sustainable, understanding change doesn’t happen overnight, but I believe and hope we can agree to do better. I want to put my energy into big-picture change, strate gically working with companies willing to listen, learn, and, ultimately, fundamentally change their businesses to help save the planet. I understand the imme diate solutions won’t be perfect, but we must commit to doing the right thing—no more excuses.”

Hosted by UNEP, the Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML) is a multi-stakeholder partnership that brings together all actors working to prevent marine litter and plastic pol lution. By providing a unique global platform to share knowl edge and experience, partners can work together to create and advance solutions to this pressing global issue.

The GPML provides a plat form to share science and case studies, advance research, reduce the leakage of plastics into the ocean through improved design, advance the application of the ‘3Rs’ principle (reduce, reuse, recycle), encourage ‘closedloop’ systems and more circular production cycles, and maximize resource efficiency and minimiza tion of waste generation.

“I have my work cut out for me,” Momoa said, “but who better to hold companies and industries accountable than Aquaman?”

Who indeed? Between his on and off-screen activism, Momoa has inspired moviegoers and environmental activists of all ages across the globe to be vocal about their passion for climate action— and he’s only getting started.

“We need to evaluate our own choices, including the products we purchase and the companies we support,” he shared. “Wonderful businesses are making beautiful products not wrapped in plastic. I’m all about cutting out sin gle-use plastic from our lives and getting businesses to work towards circularity and renewable product life cycles. I have the great honour and responsibility to reach many people who want to learn more about environmental issues and how they can help.

“For example, to celebrate Earth Day, I posted fun and silly videos to my Instagram highlighting different ways you can make changes to benefit our beautiful planet like swapping a plastic water bottle for aluminum or reusable bottles or changing out your deodorant, shampoo, body wash products that are typically in plastic packaging for sustainable options. If everyone makes little changes in their lives, it creates one massive wave of change. We must be kind to Mother Earth. Mahalo to every one who is making waves!”

Any entity working to address marine litter and microplastics can become a member of the GPML. The time for change is now—join us!

"Who better to hold companies and industries accountable than Aquaman?”

The power of positive, solution-based journalism.

Better Together: Timeless Bags for Everyone

While warm memories may greet bright futures, we strive to always live in the moment. With that said, we know that the best moments are spent with the ones we love. Times have changed, there’s no denying that, but our love for family and friends is timeless. Whether holidays are spent with family, friends, or both, there’s no better time than the present to reunite, rekindle, and renew the bond that brings us together.

TIME TO GET AWAY

We have all waited too long to experience something fun damental to us all—reuniting with loved ones. Due to cir cumstances beyond our control and now largely behind us, it’s time to plan that extended fam ily trip, weekend getaway, or day trip. At the base of it all, it’s about simple connections and being together. The time to get away is now.

MAKING YOUR CONNECTION

At Bentley, Canada’s number one retailer specializing in fine luggage and handbags, there are many winning combinations. After 35 years in the industry, it’s no wonder we’re known as the experts in the industry. Bentley has thought it through so that you don’t have to. With a wide selection of both hard and soft-shell luggage that come in

bright colours as well as softer earth tones, Bentley captures your personality. Perfect colours and trend-setting designs will set you apart at the carousel so that locating your luggage is a cinch! Connecting with friends and loved ones is easy because the Bentley collection is a reflection of you.

THE LIGHT TRAVELLER

For the light traveller who likes to skip lines, we have something for you too. You’ll find the perfect DUO with the TRACKER UPTOWN. Offered in three different colours (cream, burgundy, and black), this set comes in a rigid 19” carry-on (best format for all airlines) and matching tote. Head straight to the gate and leave the baggage carousel behind. Light and elegant, it’s the perfect match. Keep your essentials in your tote and your clothes, shoes,

and holiday gifts in your sturdy carry-on. There’s no such thing as lost luggage when you carry it with you!

THE ON-THE-GO URBAN

The Bentley collection of mod ern business bags comes in a wide selection of designs, sizes, styles, functions, shapes, and co lours. Made from rugged mate rials, you can take them on any adventure and for years to come. Style, flexibility, comfort, and strength are the hallmarks of Bentley. After all, it’s all in the bag! With a wide selection of stylish crossbody, bandoliers, mailer bags, backpacks, and waist bags for carrying all the essentials, there is a perfect bag for everyone on the go this holiday season. Pictured above are the Tracker Centennial and Tracker Sainte-Claire nylon collections. Prices vary between $69.99 and $189.99.

DANCE LIKE NOBODY IS WATCHING

Create moments to remember. Revel in them in the here and now. Enjoy the holiday parties, and make time for your friends. Live for yourself and those that you care for. After all, life is a gift. Whether with family and friends or at a business event, show up as your true self. Express who you are with confidence. Reflect your style and personality with every one you meet. And before you do, drop by a Bentley store or shop online at shopbentley.com.

You’ll find a wide selection of women’s bags to match ev ery occasion. Look your best with the new RIONA VEGAN handbag collection, sold ex clusively in 160 Bentley stores across the country.

Environmentally friendly, stylish, and quality products will always stand out in a crowd. Bentley has what you need with

the RIONA line of vegan bags. Beautiful and affordable, the RIONA collection is priced be tween $19.99 and $89.99. They’re the perfect gift for the fashionista in your life. Visit RIONA.com to discover the complete collection. And bring your wish list with you because you’ll find everything you’re looking for, from wallets and card holders to mini and wider crossbody designs, make up cases, backpacks, totes, hand bags, satchels, purses, wristlets, coin purses, credit card holders, and complete luggage sets—all designed in Canada and 100 per cent vegan. The RIONA collec tion has RFID protection, giving you the added value of peace of mind while you’re out and about. Remember to dance like nobody is watching. It will help you re member the moment!

Create your moment at shopbentley.com

© IMAGES COURTESY OF BENTLEY

Living History: Honouring Righteous Heroes

Established in 1986, the Canadian Society for Yad Vashem’s (CSYV) mission is to serve as the Canadian represen tative of the Jerusalem-based Yad Vashem: The World Holocaust Remembrance Centre by secur ing financial support for its work and disseminating the universal lessons of the Holocaust across Canada through commemorative and educational activities

CSYV oversees several nation al and local projects that provide resources for educators, recognize Holocaust survivors, provide a space for Holocaust remembrance and honour rescuers known as the ‘Righteous Among the Nations’ during the Holocaust.

CSYV is proud to be part of living history in continuing to honour heroes: The Righteous Among the Nations (RATN) This designation is the highest honour awarded by the State of Israel to non-Jewish individuals who risked their lives and the lives of their families to rescue Jews during the Holocaust. The Righteous came from many dif ferent countries, religions, and

backgrounds. To date, almost 28,000 ‘righteous’ have received this prestigious designation. In Canada, CSYV and the Israeli Foreign Ministry partner in ceremonies honouring the RATN and their descendants. In the past 12 months, CSYV has honoured three RATN living in Vancouver, Calgary, Sarnia, with upcoming ceremonies planned for Winnipeg and Toronto in 2023.

CSYV is also home to various vital programs and initiatives. There are over 300 alumni of the

Yad Vashem Canadian Educators Seminars teaching across Canada. Educators from across Canada are trained at Yad Vashem to fight against hatred, antisemitism, racism, and xenophobia. In July 2022, over 23 educators from across Canada participated in a two-week in-person Yad Vashem Holocaust education seminar in Israel.

In Toronto, the Canadian Society for Yad Vashem’s Holocaust Memorial Site

remember and to educate. The site is located in Earl Bales Park adjacent to residential areas where thousands of Holocaust survivors rebuilt their lives in Canada after the war. The Memorial contains almost 5,000 names of victims and survivors of the Holocaust.

The annual Government of Ontario Tribute honouring Holocaust Survivors was streamed online in November 2022. Ten Holocaust survivors who rebuilt their lives in Ontario after the war

and made significant contributions to the province were recognized and celebrated.

CSYV participates in cer emonies remembering those who were murdered in the Ho locaust and honouring its sur vivors across the country each year. In April 2023, during Yom Hashoah, CYSV will partici pate in the National Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony in Ottawa. To mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27, Yad Vashem will be displaying the Book of Names at the United Nations in New York City. The Book of Names is a unique memorial to the vic tims of the Holocaust and serves as a tangible memorial both to the individual identities of those murdered during the Holocaust.

Please consider supporting our important work at yadvashem.ca

Canadian Society for Yad Vashem CdnSocYadVashem canadiansocietyforYV Canadian Society for Yad Vashem

Give the Gift that Gives Back This Holiday Season

24 GOOD DEEDS

Charity Advent Calendar—

THE BAY x TORONTO RAPTORS

A

Capsule for Change—$399

As the official style partner of the Toronto Raptors, The Bay has released its second capsule collection with the team, with 100 per cent of proceeds supporting the Hudson’s Bay Foundation Charter for Change. The collection is fronted by Raptor’s forwards Pascal Siakam and Dalano Banton. The second installation of the collaboration features 15 pieces of streetwear staples including hoodies, jackets, and sweatpants.

The varsity jacket shows off the Raptors basketball logo along with Toronto branding to showcase your love for the team.

For a donation of $24 Enjoy a surprise every day leading up to Christmas—but this surprise isn’t a chocolatey treat. Instead, you get to do a new good deed every day. Behind each door, you’ll find a specific project that is made possible by a Canadian charity. Since 2020, the 24 GOOD DEEDS Charity Advent Calendar has given 75,906 medical treatments, 76,256 educational tools, 64,200 food security and meal programs, and much more.

THRIVE CAUSEMETICS

Focus Eyeshadow Palette—$48

For every product purchased, Thrive Causemetics donates to help communities thrive. Through their giving partners, the beauty brand supports a wide range of causes, includ ing fighting cancer, surviving domestic abuse, emerging from homelessness, racial and social justice, LGBTQ+ and more.

The Focus Eyeshadow Palette uses semi-permanent micropig ment technology to deliver rich pigments, while providing hydrat ing and smoothing benefits to the eyelids. The eyeshadow quad is available in three colour palettes.

OBAKKI Night Print Scarf—$89 Obakki is a purpose-led lifestyle brand that works with artisan partners, who create handcrafted goods. With the Obakki scarves, 100 per cent of the proceeds go directly toward drilling clean water wells in Africa—so far, having drilled more than 4,000.

The Night Print Scarf benefits the community of Nutka in South Sudan, where a lack of clean water threatens the most vulnerable—women, children, and the elderly.

SLEEPING GIANT BREWING COMPANY

Northern Logger—Starting at $3.01

Sleeping Giant Brewing Company’s beers are inspired by Lake Superior and the rich Canadian heritage of the Great White North. From January 1 to February 14, for every Sleeping Giant product sold at participating locations, 50 cents will be donated to local Thunder Bay charities, which the brewery calls their Craft Cares event.

The Northern Logger is an award-winning Golden Ale, which is light and makes for easy drinking. The brew is one of their featured products, representing a Canadiana cartoon on the bottle.

At CODE we see the ability to read and write as the basic building blocks for achieving every child’s right to a quality education. For over 60 years, we’ve been working hard to bring the joy of reading and learning to millions of children through our sustainable, communitybased programs in sub-Saharan Africa.

stands proudly as our commitment to

HANNAH STEYNAN, DESCENDENT OF NETHERLANDS RATN RIJPSTRA/KEVERKAMP © COURTESY OF THE CANADIAN SOCIETY FOR YAD

FOR EVERYONE WITH A BRAIN

Th at’s who we’re building this C ent r e for. F or you , your f amil y, you r neighbou rs and their loved ones . F or those living with Alzheime r’s di se as e or str uggling with dep r ession . F or those who will su ff er a stroke o r c onf r ont AL S. And fo r the ma n y who will fac e some o f th e most com mon and c hallenging b r ain diso r de r s o f our time

The G ar r y Hu rvit z Bra in Sc ien ces C ent r e is whe r e w e will i nven t the futu re of bra in he a lth . The dis coveries made and inn ovation s br ought to li fe he r e will r ed e fine what ’s possible . But w e need you . To help us change li ves. And t o help us s ave li ves

Whose brain will you dona te for?

sun n yb r ook .ca/brain

Explore the potential of neurodiversity

The Infinite Potential of Neurodiversity

People experience and interact with the world in a multitude of ways: there is no right way of thinking, behaving, or learning, and these differences are not de ficiencies. Neurodiversity is an in clusive movement pioneered in the 1990s that recognizes the beauty and potential of human cognitive variation. It acknowledges and ap preciates the fact that people with neurological differences have many

strengths and are valuable mem bers of society. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactiv ity disorder (ADHD) form a big component of the neurodiverse community, along with people with other cognitive variations, such as learning disabilities.

Data compiled by the Public Health Agency of Canada found that in 2017 just 33 per cent of

Canadian adults with ASD report ed being employed, compared to 79 per cent of non-autistic adults. There are 600,000 neurodivergent adults in Canada, of whom only one-third are employed—that leaves 400,000 individuals whose talents remain unutilized. This is an untapped demographic with often overlooked capabilities in a labour market facing significant shortages. “Big Four” profession al services firms such as Deloitte and Ernst & Young have begun to explore this domain. For exam ple, the Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence was recently launched by Ernst & Young; one of their key findings was that employed neurodiverse individuals have a 98 per cent retention rate.

Understanding and embracing neurodiversity in the workplace is essential to building an inclusive country. All businesses need to consider this marginalized demo graphic when creating diversity plans and targets. Further, business leaders are encouraged to create an environment that is conducive to this community by harnessing each neurodivergent individual’s

strengths and providing support for differences as required.

Rafiken Social Enterprises was launched to create and support innovative approaches to employ ment for neurodiverse individ uals. We envision an inclusive world in which neurodiversity is celebrated, and every individ ual can achieve their full poten tial, thereby contributing to and strengthening their communities. This social mission is achieved by providing meaningful employ ment opportunities that give neurodiverse individuals valuable experience, greater control over their own lives through finan cial independence, and a sense of pride based on accomplishment.

In the spring of 2022, Rafiken entered the Food and Beverage sector with the launch of a pilot project in midtown Toronto, Holy Grounds Café. They are currently developing their next project—The Infinite Bean, a café and chocolati er—that will launch in downtown Toronto in 2023. The goal of these entities is to provide meaningful employment to individuals from the neurodiverse community.

Future phases will diversify em ployment opportunities by enter ing other industries, such as tech, to widen the talent pool and simul taneously launch online services that work with this demographic. The neurodiverse community is our labour force’s best-kept secret, and its knowledge, experience, and potential remain untapped.

Rafiken Social Enterprises is changing the status quo, leading by example and striking strategic partnerships within the labour market to create and increase employment opportunities for neurodiverse people.

If you are interested in being a part of our story, we would love to hear from you. We welcome your collaboration, be it as an individ ual seeking meaningful employ ment or as an industry partner who would like to work with us in creating these opportunities.

Visit our website at www.rafiken.ca and reach out to us. Together, we will build a more inclusive world that unleashes the infinite potential of neurodiversity!

Canadian Musicians Lend Their Voices to Raise Awareness of The Fight for Democracy in Iran

A4A Records (Artists for Artists)/Warner Music Canada have released a lyric video for Sunday Bloody Sunday a 2019 song recorded by a collective of Canadian artists committed to promoting freedom and human rights worldwide. The cover was originally recorded and released in the summer of 2019 to raise awareness of the political crisis and human suffering in Sudan. Now, participating artists like Junowinner Hill Kourkoutis are once again sharing U2’s iconic protest song in solidarity with Iranian women.

“ Music can help to raise awareness and spark conversations, which in turn leads to change. We believe in the power of music and we stand together with the people of Iran,” Kourkoutis said.

“Reimagined by some of our greatest Canadian talent, our hope is that this song serves as a tool of advocacy, helping to amplify the voices of those

fighting to reclaim their own,” explained Darcy Ataman who co-produced the track alongside multiple Grammy winner David Bottrill (Muse, Rush, Peter Gabriel).

“As always, when voices are unceremoniously silenced, music must take its place at the vanguard, leading the charge in the art of protest to advocate for basic freedoms,” said Ataman.

Widespread protests against the Iranian government were sparked by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, arrested by the morality police in Tehran on September 13 for allegedly violating Iran’s strict rules requiring women to cover their hair with a hijab. Since then, scores of protesters have been arrested, jailed, and killed by the oppressive regime as a national uprising and growing international movement call for accountability and the respect of fundamental human rights.

PARTICIPATING ARTISTS INCLUDE:

• Ian D’Sa (Billy Talent)

Ben Kowalewicz (Billy Talent)

• Jim Cuddy (Blue Rodeo)

• Cone (Sum 41)

• Neil Sanderson (Three Days Grace)

• Matt Walst (Three Days Grace)

• Damhnait Doyle

• Emmanuel Jal Serena Ryder

• Corey Hart

• Ron Hawkins (Lowest of The Low)

Scott Anderson (Finger Eleven)

• Simon Ward (The Strumbellas)

• Amy Millan (Stars)

• Colin MacDonald (The Trews)

John Angus (The Trews)

• Ewan Currie (The Sheepdogs)

Though not intended as a charity record, all proceeds raised through downloads and streams will be donated to Abdorrahman Boroumand Center for Human Rights in Iran and Amnesty International - Iran.

ABOUT A4A RECORDS & PUBLISHING

A4A Records is home to recordings from Make Music Matter’s (makemusicmatter.org)

Healing in Harmony music therapy program for trauma survivors. With global distri bution through Warner Music Canada, songs of resilience and

solidarity celebrate the power of music to heal.

Through a groundbreaking publishing model created in partnership with SOCAN, A4A Publishing is able to collect royalties on behalf of artists living in extreme poverty and conflict zones and 100 per cent of royalties are sent back to the artist community.

Restoring Sight, Transforming Communities

Give the life-changing Gift of Sight this holiday season

For seven-year-old Misba, the Gift of Sight has meant so much more than a pair of prescrip tion eyeglasses—it’s also been a chance to thrive at school and build connections with friends.

For her parents, who live with their daughter in a small village in West Bengal, India, it’s the unmistakable way Misba’s eyes now light up when she looks up at them.

It wasn’t always this way. Her father, Mahabul, and mother, Ruku, say worsening vision issues made it impossible for Misba to read a book without great difficul ty. Their usually happy daughter often became irritated during play and at school.

Sadly, financial hardship pre vented them from seeking help for their daughter.

When an Operation Eyesight health worker knocked on the family’s door, it was a turning point in the little girl’s life. After screening Misba’s eyes, the health worker identified her with myopia—better known as nearsightedness. She was

referred to the Operation Eyesight vision centre near her home and partner hospital, Siliguri Greater Lions Eye Hospital, where she received an eye exam and a pair of corrective eyeglasses.

Today, Misba is thriving in school and happily playing with her friends.

VISION LOSS: THE WORLD’S MOST UNADDRESSED DISABILITY

Almost everyone on the planet will experience an eye health issue in their lifetime. Although 90 per cent of vision loss is preventable or treatable, today, more than a billion people still don’t have access to eye care services to correct, treat or prevent vision loss.

“In communities where we work across sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, untreat ed vision loss often closes the door to getting an education, particularly for girls, who are disproportionately impacted by eye health problems,” explained

Kashinath Bhoosnurmath, President & CEO of Operation Eyesight. “Thanks to the generos ity of Canadians, we are not only providing prescription eyeglasses and life-changing surgery to those who need it, we are also trans forming entire communities.”

Together, we are creating a world where quality, affordable and inclusive eye health care is available for everyone, everywhere. We are also improving people’s overall health and well-being, bringing local access to clean water and sanitation, and

improving equality for women and girls, who are more likely to suffer poor vision and less likely to get treatment.

THE GIFT OF SIGHT: THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

By giving the Gift of Sight this holiday season, you can help give a child like Misba the chance to learn and thrive.

You can give a parent the ability to provide for their family and care for their children.

You can give a senior the gift of independence.

Misba’s parents say they are grateful for the care she received at their local vision centre and for the health worker doing doorto-door eye health screenings in their community.

Most of all, they are relieved that they have their joyful, brighteyed daughter back. Misba’s smile says it all!

Visit operationeyesight.com/ GiftOfSight to donate today.

© PEXELS/TIM DOUGLAS

The power December • 2022

Charitable Gaming Supporting communities across Ontario.

Charitable Gaming For Community Good

The world of gaming is changing before our eyes, but one reality remains constant: only Charitable Gaming delivers much-needed funding to thousands of local Ontario charities. It’s the only form of gaming that reinvests locally, promoting Community Good across the province.

Ontario Charitable Gaming Association supports over 2,200 charities and non-profits in their fundraising efforts. Funds are raised through regulated Charitable Gaming in Ontario.

Social service agencies, shel ters, food banks, hospitals, youth groups, cultural organizations, seniors’ services, and service clubs all depend on Charitable Gaming funds as one source of revenue. Yet public awareness of the significant impact Charitable Gaming makes in our local com munities remains low.

Did you know that at our 37 Charitable Gaming centres alone, charities and non-profits are projected to raise over $70 million this year to provide need ed services in local communities?

Break Open Nevada tickets sold through convenience stores and the many raffles held across the province also provide signif icant funds.

The impact of this support is nothing less than a game-chang er for many charitable organiza tions. Charitable Gaming serves as a dependable pipeline for funding these local charities and non-profits, enabling them to support our communities most vulnerable populations.

“Being involved in Charitable Gaming allows us to support the valuable work we do in build ing lives free of violence. It is a great opportunity to fundraise for children and youth programming and family support. Many other important community agencies have a chance to do more and have more impact as a result of Charitable Gaming.”

—Jannies Le, Executive Director, Armagh House (women’s shelter)

How many kids would miss out on camp without the

Sudbury Charities Foundation, or on life-changing mentoring without Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada? How would 300 children and teens receive the online homework help they need without Drouillard Place, or the immeasurable support Bereaved Families of Ontario provides? How would autistic youth learn to trampoline without the Kingston Aeros Trampoline Club?

“For decades, Charitable Gaming has been a cornerstone for fundraising to assist local charities and non-profits. Our goal is to continue to raise awareness of the resulting important services and programs in communities all across Ontario.”

—Lynn Cassidy, Executive Director, Ontario Charitable Gaming Association

your charity or non-profit can benefit.

THANKS FOR SHOWING HOW MUCH YOU CARE

To all the charities, their staff, the tireless volunteers, and everyone fundraising through Charitable Gaming—a heart felt thank you for the invalu able support you offer the most vulnerable in our communities. Learn more about the stories that have touched us. We expect they’ll do the same for you.

George Stroumboulopoulos Reflects on His Work in Syria

ALLIE MURRAY

Since the onset of COVID-19 and now with the ripple effect from the war in Ukraine, the world has been struggling with record-high prices for food and energy. For Syrians, this was the last blow after 11 years of crises that have already exhausted their ability to cope and feed their families.

Organizations like the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) have been instrumental in supporting Syrian families with food assistance, reaching over 5.5 million people every month.

WFP Goodwill Ambassador George Stroumboulopoulos travelled to Aleppo, Syria to see the scale and reach of WFP’s work first-hand.

“Syria is a country with enormous challenges, it has the sixth-highest number of food-insecure people globally,” Stroumboulopoulos explained. “Food insecurity drivers, from economic decline and inflation to fuel shortages and skyrocketing prices, were further exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine.”

Stroumboulopoulos, who is known for his broadcast work in Canadian media such as Hockey Night in Canada, George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight, The Hour on CBC, and now host of STROMBO on Apple Music, joined WFP as a Goodwill Ambassador in 2011, being named the first Canadian National Ambassador Against Hunger. His tenure with WFP has brought him to places such as Pakistan and Haiti, and most recently, Syria.

“Of the many things you learn

with WFP, it’s almost never one reason that people are hungry,” Stroumboulopoulos shared.

“Poverty, conflict, women’s rights and so many more realities play a role in creating food insecurity.”

While in Aleppo, he met with a variety of people—both locals and individuals from other humanitarian organizations— but it was two Syrian women, Ghufran and Zuha, who stood out to him.

“Ghufran suffered so much during the conflict, losing two brothers and her husband—she

fights every day to keep her family going,” he said. “There’s a resilience and fight in her that was truly powerful. Plus, she’s a Taekwondo champion and she lights up when talking about that.”

“Zuha was once a WFP recipient and now works for WFP,” he continued. “She has transformed into a really compelling voice in Aleppo, and I was so grateful to learn about the city through her eyes.”

After returning from Aleppo, Stroumboulopoulos

continues to reflect on the crisis Syrians are facing.

“Twelve million people are food insecure and nearly two million more are on the verge of sliding into that category,” he explained. “With winter coming, energy shortages and near absence of power supply many people are facing a bleak and dangerous winter.”

Canada has played an important role in supporting WFP’s operations in Syria, working together to reach people with life-saving assistance when they needed it most. Stroumboulopoulos urges, if you’re able to, donate to WFP to support people like Ghufran. “WFP reaches over 5.5 million people across the country with food assistance, which now increasingly takes the form of cash,” he said.

“Cash assistance enables the purchase of food from WFP contracted retailers, not only benefiting the local community but empowering women like Ghufran to choose the food they purchase, supporting their agency and dignity.”

Ground Search and Rescue in Canada

The Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC) is a registered not-for-profit and educational organization that supports, coordinates, develops, informs, promotes and implements search, rescue and emergency re sponse with the underlying prin ciple of saving lives.

SARVAC is administered by volunteers who train and prac tice search, rescue and survival skills in various parts of Canada. The organization is supported by the National Search and Rescue Secretariat and is funded through donations and fundraising events. SARVAC takes pride in offering a vital national service.

In addition to its search and res cue activities, it provides a medi um for liaison and the exchange of information among federal, provincial/territorial, local, and volunteer search and/or rescue agencies and organizations.

Established in 1996, SARVAC is a federally incorporated registered Canadian Charity that provides a national voice for ground search and rescue volunteers in Canada.

We address issues of common concern to develop consistency, promote standardization or porta bility of programs and volunteers, and deliver initiatives that benefit and support all ground search and rescue volunteers in Canada and the general public.

SARVAC represents Canada’s thirteen provincial and territorial

volunteer Ground Search and Rescue Associations. SARVAC's Board of Directors is comprised of volunteer representatives from each province and territory. Ul timately, SARVAC represents the interests of 9,000 Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) vol unteers throughout Canada who collectively provide over 600,000 person-hours to search and rescue services on land and inland waters.

SAR PREVENTION

SARVAC is a key partner of the AdventureSmart program. AdventureSmart is a national program encouraging Canadians and visitors to Canada to “get informed and go outdoors.” The program combines online and on-site awareness with targeted outreach in five programs—Hug a Tree and Survive, Survive Outside, Snow Safety & Education, Survive Outside-Snowmobile Safety, and PaddleSmart.

AdventureSmart provides free web-based and mobile Trip Plan APP, interactive kids game, a comprehensive website, and is currently developing eLearning

training programs. SARVAC volunteers offer in-person and virtual presentations, Trainer and Outdoor Educator training, and outreach materials.

Over the past five years, SARVAC volunteers have delivered 5,610 AdventureSmart presentations to 237,449 members of the public, contributing 31,532 volunteer hours (valued at $788,300).

HUMANITARIAN WORKFORCE

SARVAC has recently been very active in Public Safety Canada’s Supporting a Humanitarian Work force to Respond to COVID-19 and Other Large-Scale Emergen cies (HWF) program.

With the implementation of Phase 2 of the SARVAC HWF Program, development is now well underway, focusing on increasing our readiness capacity and deploy ment ability through the following: • Continued development of governance and operation al documents.

Developing Interim Operations and Logistics support for the

SARVAC HWF Program.

• Developing a system to provide Mobile and Scalable Logistics. Implementing a Data Management System.

• Purchasing Basic readiness Kits and Supplies to support future HWF deployments.

• Building the capacity of the SARVAC office to support the HWF program by hiring staff and consultants.

• Developing Agreements with the Provinces and Territories.

• Development and Implemen tation of an Indigenous and Remote Community Engagement program.

VOLUNTEER

Are you looking to join a lo cal SAR team? Recruitment of volunteers is conducted by the local GSAR teams with in their regions of operation. Social media and recruitment events are methods utilized. To locate a GSAR near you, head to www.sarvac.ca , find the link to your provincial or territorial association, then find the team nearest you.

GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULOS SPEAKING WITH A FAMILY IN SYRIA © COURTESY OF THE WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME

Sunscreen in the Winter!

Melanoma Canada’s second annual 7 Summits Snowshoe Challenge for Skin Cancer presented by Neutrogena is back with a vengeance.

The virtual and live event is all about promoting the importance of winter sun safety to protect against melanoma and skin cancer.

“As Canadians, we tend to put away our sunscreen with our swimsuits,” said Falyn Katz, CEO – Melanoma Canada. “But sun safety needs to be top of mind year round.”

Snow can reflect the sun’s UV rays by up to 88 per cent, this combined with a higher altitude can make winter sun every bit as damaging on the slopes as it is on the beach! Even on cloudy days, winter sports enthusiasts are at greater risk of skin damage—this is because up to 80 per cent of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate cloud cover. It is also important to understand that both snow and strong winds can wear away any sunscreen pro tection used and thereby reduce its effectiveness, so it is particularly im portant to actively reapply at least every two hours. Eighty-five per cent of melanoma and skin cancers are

caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tan ning beds. By protecting ourselves year-round, we can curb the rising rates of melanoma and skin cancers and prevent many deaths as a result.

In February, the virtual 7 Summits Snowshoe Challenge begins and Canadians from coast to coast to coast will strap on their snowshoes all month long and head out to trails to tackle the distance equivalent to the world’s tallest peaks (just over 43 km). The challenge can be tak en as a team, or solo. Complete all seven summits or just one—every step counts! Be a part of our online community and share accomplish ments, photos, and know that we’re

with you every step of the way!

On March 4, Duntroon Highlands will again play host to a family friendly version of the 7 Summits Snowshoe Challenge. People of all ages and all abilities are welcome. The event features an “Olympic-style” village, live music and entertainment, and delicious winter treats. It will be hosted by Global News Anchor, Alan Carter and Broadcast Journalist and TV Host, Mike Arsenault.

Learn more about how you can get involved in Melanoma Canada’s 7 Summits Snowshoe Challenge for Skin Cancer presented by Neutrogena visit, 7summits.ca

TAKE ON THE CHALLENGE

Celebrating This Year’s Canada’s Walk of Fame Inductees

CANADA’S INTERNATIONAL COMEDY INSTITUTION

Canada’s world-renowned

Known for her powerful, soulful voice and sultry ballads, the Grammy nominee, multiple JUNO Award winner and Broadway star has since scaled the charts, racking up 13 No. 1 hits and six critically acclaimed albums. She became the first Black woman to be inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame earlier this year.

A nationally esteemed business leader, unwavering philanthropist, and Canada’s most recognized advocate for literacy and the joy of reading. Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Indigo, and co-founder of the e-reading plat form Kobo, the Financial Times listed Reisman as one of the Top 50 Businesswomen in the world.

“Orphan Black;” and on the heels of her starring role in Marvel’s “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law,” Maslany’s true ‘superpower’ has been using her voice and platform to shine a light on LGBTQ+ rights.

THE TRAGICALLY HIP –IN PURSUIT OF SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

Barbara Frum (1937-1992) was one of the most recognized voic es in Canada. As a journalist for CBC Radio’s “As It Happens” and subsequently for CBC TV’s “The Journal,” Frum was known for her direct style and hard-hitting questions, having interviewed more than 2,600 people, including politicians, change-makers, celebrities, and cult leaders.

The protégé of iconic director Hype Williams, Lutz is known for his trailblazing videos for some of the biggest music superstars in the world, such as Drake, Rihanna, and Kendrick Lamar, to name a few.

A creative force, Lutz's credits also include the feature film, “Superfly” for Sony Studios and the upcoming modern-day reimagining of the classic tale, “Robyn Hood,” featur ing a fearless heroine as ‘Robyn.’

For more than three decades, The Tragically Hip’s tireless activism and philanthropic pursuits have raised millions of dollars for multiple social and environmental causes. They used their enormous megaphone in 2016 to shine a spotlight on the country’s systemic mistreatment of Indigenous peoples. The legacy of the band’s frontman, the late Gord Downie, continues with “The Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Fund.”

ALLAN SLAIGHT MUSIC IMPACT HONOUR RECIPIENTS

Arkells are the recipients of the 2022 Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour in recognition of their positive impact on others and contributions to the community. The 2022 edition of “The Rally” concert donated $1 from every ticket sold benefiting geared-toincome housing in Hamilton, ON; and the band regularly gives their time to uplift others from free music lessons to raise money for local food banks to building a community basketball court.

The Foundations of Reconciliation

JOSÉE LUSIGNAN, CO-FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT, I LOVE FIRST PEOPLES

I’ll never forget that cold day in February 2013, arriving in the Algonquin First Nation com munity of Rapid Lake, Québec, to meet with Jules, the Director of Education. Back home, my living room had become a maze of children’s gifts, piled to the ceiling because of a simple email I’d sent out to friends asking: “would you help me ‘do some thing?’” I could no longer bear knowing that children across Canada and near me lived in substandard houses without electricity or potable water, fac ing unfathomable struggles and inequalities. Jules welcomed me with his two young granddaugh ters. Over the next few hours, the girls giggled with excitement as they played with the gifts I had brought. Jules’ eyes sparked joy at the sound of their laughter, his words and pensiveness convey ing a profound devotion to the children of his community. That day, he said two things that have

guided the course of our work: “If our children are to overcome poverty, they must complete their education. Josée, if you and your team can encourage our children to stay in school, our community is open to you.”

This February 2023, we will celebrate ten years of answering Jules’ call in 90 communities across Canada.

We called ourselves I Love First Peoples. A daring name, for sure. We wanted to stir Canadians, so they would question their relationship with Indigenous peoples—Who are they? What is my relationship to them? As an ally organization, we set out to bring the idea of “bridging” (reconciliation) into the homes of everyday Canadians. This was yet unchartered territory, inviting us to conceive historic events, such as two ceremonies that inspired a movement to honour Indigenous peoples at NHL games in Toronto and Buffalo, both of which featured our dear friend, the late Fred Sasakamoose (first Indigenous player to the NHL and Order of Canada inductee); a tour on the

topic of residential schools and intergenerational trauma bringing elders in 45 remote communities to share their experiences as part of the Indian Horse pre-cinematic

release; a tour on mental health and suicide amongst Inuit youth, bringing youth in 45 remote communities to speak out, as part of The Grizzlies pre-cinematic

release; a celebrity campaign to raise awareness about suicide amongst First Nations youth, titled I Love Attawapiskat; and recently, an online event to bring global awareness featuring a conversation between Buffy Sainte-Marie, Massey Whiteknife (APTN’s Queen of the Oil Sands) and the Dalai Lama… Yes, we have been daring in our passion for moving the conversation forward and engaging Canadians. Still, by far, our greatest accomplishment will have been our early ability to heed the wisdom of a former board member and chief who said: “Stop talking and listen to the words, listen to the silence.” These are the very foundations of reconciliation because there is so much for those of us who are settlers to learn.

As we set our sights on the next ten years, we look forward to sharing what we have learned and experienced and introduc ing new ways to further recon ciliation. We will continue to create educational opportuni ties for youth and grow our very successful sewing labs across the North. We hope you will join us!

7 Summits Snowshoe Challenge for Skin Cancer presented by Neutrogena is an epic winter event to raise funds and awareness on importance of winter sun safety

Since its inception in 1998, Canada’s Walk of Fame has inducted more than 200 Canadians, celebrating Canadian excellence and achievement. This year, Canada’s Walk of Fame is celebrating eight new inductions—all of whom have educated, empowered, and inspired Canadians from coast to coast to coast—during a star-studded gala in Toronto, followed by a special broadcast on CTV (check local listings). The 2022 Canada’s Walk of Fame Inductees and Honourees are:

BARBARA FRUM – THE MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMAN IN CANADIAN BROADCASTING

DEBORAH COX – AWARDWINNING CANADIAN SINGER, ACTRESS AND BROADWAY STAR

TATIANA MASLANY –

A TOUR DE FORCE ON SCREEN AND STAGE Canadian Screen Award and Emmy Award-winner Tatiana Maslany is a Saskatchewan native who skyrock eted to fame for playing multiple characters in the award-winning series

HEATHER REISMAN –CANADA’S MOST RECOGNIZED LITERACY ADVOCATE

JULIEN CHRISTIAN LUTZ, PKA DIRECTOR X – CANADA’S MOST ICONIC MUSIC VIDEO DIRECTOR

JUST FOR LAUGHS –

Just For Laughs have made funny their business since 1983. From its humble beginnings at the Saint-Denis Theatre in Montréal, today Just For Laughs is the most important player in the global comedy industry. An international powerhouse of multi-platform comedy content.

LIONEL CONACHER –CANADA’S GREATEST ALL-AROUND ATHLETE Lionel Conacher (1900-1954) was reputedly the greatest allround athlete Canada has ever produced, excelling in boxing, football and Hockey Hall of Famer, winning two Stanley Cups. In 1937, Conacher retired from professional sports and after a stint in the Armed Forces, became a Member of Parliament.

Living to the Rhythm of Giving

When Jim and Annette started their life together, they knew that they wanted to continue living out the values they had learned growing up. “We both come from families that believe service and generosity are an integral part of life,” Annette explained. Over the years, this commitment to giving has helped guide everything from careers to parenting to how they spend their free time. “We don’t honestly have to make a conscious decision about [generosity],” Annette said. Instead, it is a part of the rhythm of their daily life.

“To grow generous young people, you have to lead by example,” Annette said. “It doesn’t matter what you say—it’s always what you do.” So, Jim and Annette involved their children in giving back to the community from an early age. The family volunteers extensively, each giving time to organizations close to their hearts. “I’m a big believer in supporting local initiatives and giving back to the community that you live in,” Annette said. “It’s much easier to see the results when you have a local project… and it breeds more charity.”

This commitment to the local community extends into their careers, as well. “We’re very lucky in that we have service jobs, so generosity kind of goes part and parcel with our professions,” explained Annette, who has built a career as a surgeon and physician specializing in women’s health.

Jim works as an investment advisor with one of Canada’s major financial management firms and owns a large-scale jointventure farm. When it comes to sharing the fruits of their hard work with the charities they care about, Jim and Annette appreciate working with Abundance Canada.

“Being in business, I see the stress families are under thinking about [the business side of gen erosity], trying to walk through it and getting lawyers and ac countants together to figure it all out,” Jim said. “Abundance Canada covers off a lot of those steps.” Jim and Annette’s do nor-advised fund (DAF) makes

giving efficient and straightfor ward, allowing them to focus on the joy of being generous.

Jim said, “Abundance Canada takes care of things.” He goes on to explain that they use the foundation’s services beyond managing their DAF, but also their charitable bequests and finding tax-efficient ways to support their favourite charities.

And just like volunteering, Jim and Annette are keen to share this experience of giving with their children. “Every body’s financial capabilities are different, but that shouldn’t be a stumbling block in their gen erosity,” Jim said. Their children learned from an early age that privilege comes with a respon sibility to care for others, and Jim and Annette made a point of involving the whole family in financial giving decisions.

However, Jim is clear that liv ing generously involves giving a combination of money, time, and talent. He said, “Writing a cheque is a fine thing, but there should be more to it than that.”

Over the years, Jim and Annette have seen the impact of their generosity many times. When serving as board chair for the local Ronald McDonald House, Jim often saw the im pact that charitable giving had on families in Saskatchewan. He recounted, “I have count less stories of families staying at the house going back to their small towns and organizing a fundraiser to help other fami lies staying at the house.” Jim tells of one young girl from ru ral Saskatchewan who contacted Ronald McDonald House a few months after the conclusion of her treatment. She had turned around and raised $115K for the charity. “For a twelve-year-old to do that, it was a little over whelming,” Jim said. “It remind ed me that not only my dollars, but my time and energy have been spent in a good place.”

In June of 2017, Annette par ticipated in a city-wide fundraiser to raise awareness of the chal lenges faced by people experi encing poverty, homelessness,

and chronic illness. During the fundraiser, Annette lived on the streets for 36 hours with no ID and no money, wearing only do nated clothes and shoes, bereft of any personal belongings (except a phone to document her jour ney). “It was a very life-chang ing experience to go from being somebody who has a Visa card, drives whenever I want, and gets a lot of respect in the commu nity, to panhandling and having people literally run away from me because they were afraid of me,” Annette said. “It was only 36 hours, but it was very pivotal in terms of seeing someone else’s

perspective. It gave me a whole different mindset in terms of gen erosity and how you treat people that you see on the street.”

Considering the generation of generous people coming up behind them, Jim and Annette are optimistic about the future. “We’re very lucky that our kids are growing up in a generation where they will try to change the world. It’s a very natural thing for them.” Annette said. “It doesn’t have to be onerous. It doesn’t have to be your life savings. It’s reflected in all that you do.” Jim concluded with an encouraging challenge to people of all ages

and stages of life: Whether it’s making a donation or volunteer ing at a charity, generosity starts with just getting out there and seeing what you can do to help.

Jim and Annette are clients of Abundance Canada, a public foundation that helps Canadians create simple, customized, tax-efficient, charitable gifting solutions so they can express their values through their giving. For more information about the services of Abundance Canada, visit abundance.ca or call 1.800.772.3257 to speak with a Gift Planning Consultant.

Simple, Tax Efficient Generosity

There are so many ways you can impact the causes you love. Donating publicly traded securities in-kind is one, and it’s the most tax e cient way to give to charity.

Speak with a gift planning consultant to learn how this simple, tax e cient charitable gifting solution may support your generosity.

ANNETTE AND JIM © COURTESY OF ABUNDANCE CANADA

Raising Awareness Through Education to Defend Truth, Justice and Human Rights

Toronto, December 9, 2022: This week, as we celebrate the anniversaries of the signing of the Genocide Convention (December 9, 1948) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (December 10, 1948), individuals and organizations around the globe reaffirm their commitments to protecting human rights, and the words “never again” when it comes to genocide.

Since 1984, the Zoryan Institute and its division, the International Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies, have been committed to building a community of informed Canadian

citizens dedicated to respecting diversity and protecting human rights and dignity through education and scholarly activities in the fields of Genocide and Human Rights Studies. Recognizing the phenomenon of genocide as a universal human experience, the Institute undertakes its activities with a comparative and multidisciplinary approach.

BUILDING A COMMUNITY OF INFORMED CANADIAN CITIZENS DEDICATED TO RESPECTING DIVERSITY, AND PROMOTING AND PROTECTING HUMAN RIGHTS AND DIGNITY.

Today, in the face of rising inequality, violent extremism, and growing conflicts and tensions around the globe, the delivery of education programs promoting equity, inclusion, anti-hate, nondiscrimination, and social justice are of critical importance. As schools across Ontario explore new strategies to incorporate this type of programming, the Zoryan Institute is at the forefront, delivering interactive presentations on human rights and genocide to high school audiences. For the past 20 years, the Zoryan Institute has also brought together the next generation of human rights and genocide specialists from around the globe to study in Canada at the University of Toronto through its Genocide and Human Rights University Program. These educational programs are in addition to the development of an innovative online database of resources and accessible virtual learning opportunities pertaining to these issues, the publication of the Institute’s peer-reviewed academic journal published by the University of Toronto Press, Genocide Studies International, and the launch of

teacher training programs that equip teachers with the knowledge, tools, and techniques required to create learning spaces that respond to the unique human rights challenges of today’s youth in a multicultural nation like Canada.

The Zoryan Institute is also a leading institute in fostering dialogue around issues that explore identity, home and belonging in order to challenge prejudice, discrimination and stereotypes and promote an inclusive and multicultural Canada. This is done through its globally recognized podcast, Dispersion, and its award-winning academic journal, Diaspora: A Journal of Transnational Studies, founded in 1991 and published by the University of Toronto Press.

DELIVERING EDUCATION PROGRAMS PROMOTING EQUITY, INCLUSION, ANTI-HATE, NONDISCRIMINATION, AND SOCIAL JUSTICE.

As an organization dedicated to raising awareness about issues

pertaining to genocide and gross violations of human rights, the Institute has also undertaken multiple post-conflict research initiatives and has hosted nu merous international academic conferences in partnership with post-secondary institutions and humanitarian organizations across Canada and the globe.

On this International Day of the Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime and Human Rights Day, we ask you to not only commemorate these days but to convert your recognition into action by generously supporting the Zoryan Institute in its work to continue raising awareness about these issues, and fighting future injustices and atrocities through educational and scholarly activities. Educating our youth is critical to promoting tolerance, equity, and reconciliation and making the words “never again” a reality.

Learn how you can make a difference: zoryaninstitute.org

Artistic Director Weyni Mengesha Sets the Stage for Diverse Stories

VANESSA GRANT

Weyni Mengesha tells the stories we don’t often hear. As one of the first Black artistic directors of a major theatre company who’s directed hit plays like ’da Kink in my Hair and Kim’s Convenience she’s spent her career shining the theatrical spotlight on stories by and about people of colour.

“We live in a city where we celebrate our diversity, but people don’t often get to speak openly about their lived experiences to one another,” Mengesha shared.

“The theatre is a place where we get to hear each other’s secrets in the dark. There’s an intimacy to theatre that creates an ideal temporary community where we’re all together, sharing stories.”

A first-generation Canadian, Mengesha is the daughter of Ethiopian immigrants who was born in Vancouver and grew up in Scarborough. She was inspired to become an artist when she had trouble reconciling two versions of her home country: the bleak Ethiopia she saw in the news and the rich culture she

experienced first through family tales and later when she travelled there in person.

“This discrepancy taught me the importance of multiple narratives. And that there’s power in story,” she explained.

This drive to share different perspectives is what motivated Mengesha to work on ’da Kink , a play by Trey Anthony set in a hair salon that tells Black

women’s personal stories while shedding light on deep topics like racism, homophobia, and police profiling. From writing the lyrics and music because there was no budget to hire anyone else when they started out, to insisting Mirvish Productions give the play another shot after they’d already passed on it, Mengesha played an instrumental role in

transforming ’da Kink from a one-woman show to an international hit that eventually became a TV show.

But rather than looking at ’da Kink’s success as a one-off, she insists there is strong audience demand for diverse content.

“I’ve always felt people were craving more stories from diverse voices. When people told me ‘there’s no history of audiences from these communities coming to the theatre,’ I would say ‘well, of course not, you’ve never invited them,’” Mengesha shared.

“It’s like any other home—there needs to be a big enough gesture that welcomes people of colour through the doors, because we’ve felt excluded from certain cultural spaces in the past. Audiences would like to come, but we need some radical gestures to invite them in.”

Now in a leadership role at Soulpepper Theatre, Mengesha is also making sure there are diverse role models in cultural institutions—something that was lacking when she started out.

“When I auditioned for theatre school, I couldn’t find a

Black Canadian monologue to use—not that one didn’t exist, but none were available in my library,” she said. “This is why I was so determined to work on ’da Kink and other Black Canadian content. Now I want to give back and make sure others feel welcome in cultural spaces. All leaders of institutions, especially in Toronto, have a responsibility to reflect the society we live in.” With ’da Kink returning to Toronto this December for its 20th anniversary in a copresentation by TO Live and Soulpepper, Mengesha hopes the play’s restaging sparks important conversations.

“The art doesn’t change, but hopefully we do,” Mengesha said. “It was important to us to reflect on how far we’ve come, so Trey didn’t do any rewrites to the story. I think that’s why people continue to put on classical plays for hundreds of years—it’s like a conversation with our ancestors. Hopefully, this play continues to get done and everyone can reflect on how our society has shifted and what work remains to be done.”

Give the Gift of Hope with the Scott Mission

The needs of the most vulnera ble communities in the GTA are growing. Food bank usage and basic food and shelter security are more fragile than ever due to inflation, an increase in debt load, scarcity caused by supply chain issues, housing shortages, labour insecu rity, and more. In the last year, the Scott Mission has seen an increase in demand for support—including a 47 per cent increase in demand for hot meals and 20 per cent for grocery help. An already stressful situation is compounded by also wanting to celebrate with special meals and provide joy for kids.

Christmastime is a special sea son at the Mission. Celebrating the Scott Mission faith and the spirit of the season is at the centre of all the Mission does. Extending that cele bration to the community through gatherings and services spreads hol iday cheer and support when many families need it the most. That’s why the Scott Mission has a unique Christmas distribution—along with their regular grocery order from the food bank, clients receive grocery gift cards to choose food that means something special to their family

and their culture, allowing them to celebrate the season in a way that speaks to them.

“We are a second home for many of our neighbours and want to celebrate with them and help them celebrate with their families,” shared Jonathan Miller, Chief Ministry Officer at the Scott Mission.

Scott Mission’s popular Christmas program includes extra help during the holiday season for 2,600 fami lies, including toys for their children and new warm winter coats—grant ing families both what is needed to survive harsh winters and some holiday cheer and joy during a spe cial time of year. These programs make all the difference for families like Gisella’s. Gisella is a mother of eight and has come to the Scott Mission for groceries and toys for her kids for years.

Gisella shared that she was ner vous when she first came to Scott Mission but was pleasantly sur prised to find that everyone she spoke to treated her with dignity and respect.

“I don’t have too much money,” she said. “When I come in, they give me clothes. Last Christmas

day, when I gave my kids the toys, they were so happy. They’re all that I have.”

On top of toys and groceries, the Scott Mission also helped Gisella get winter coats for her and her chil dren. Canada is known for harsh winters, and sturdy coats can be expensive. Gisella explained that receiving a jacket voucher made a big difference for her family.

“The Mission helps me a lot. It’s cold out and these are in good condition. [Winter clothing] is so expensive now, this will help my family,” Giselle wrote. “Thanks to God and all who make all this possible.”

Communities prosper when families have access to the tools and infrastructure needed to build a better life. Each of us has the pow er to change lives and address the problem of poverty. When we do nate to organizations like the Scott Mission, we rebalance the scales of dignity and open the door for someone looking for help, care, and compassion. We ignite the spark of hope for a brighter future, and that spark lights a fire. With the help of compassionate

neighbours, the Scott Mission works to see lives transformed and poverty left behind. When neighbours help neighbours, everyone sees the benefit.

ABOUT SCOTT MISSION

Scott Mission has been respond ing to the needs of the vulnerable, homeless, abandoned, and disad vantaged of all ages since 1941 by offering spiritual, practical, and emotional support to thou sands of people each year. Scott Mission offers hot meals (six days a week, breakfast: 8-9:30 a.m.;

lunch 10-11:30 a.m.); daily bag lunches; quality childcare services; a summer camp and after-school programs for children and youth from low-income families; free good-quality clothing; emergen cy groceries; shower and laundry facilities for the homeless; a 40-bed shelter; and out-of-town retreats for clients.

Hunger is not a choice. Giving is. Give the gift of hope by donating online at scottmission.com/neighbour or by phone at 416-923-2400.

GISELLA © COURTESY OF SCOTT MISSION

WEYNI MENGESHA 2021 © MIKKA GIA

© COURTESY OF ZORYAN INSTITUTE

Tropicana Community Services: Fueling a Better Future

Complex and multidimensional, poverty affects every aspect of a person’s life, from what they eat during the day to where they lay their head at night. Howev er, poverty need not be perma nent—when given the support and the resources to change their lives, people facing poverty have the power to build a more secure future for themselves and their families. Help begets help, and receiving support during times of need provides the stepping stones to create lasting change and even pay it forward to others.

Tropicana Community Services, founded in 1980 as a non-profit community organization, is on a mission to serve disadvantaged youth and their families, particularly those from the Caribbean. Since its inception, the organization has grown into a multi-service delivery agency with programs designed to address issues affecting all youth, newcomers, members of the Caribbean and Black communities and others in need.

Tropicana offers culturally aware and supportive programs to those in need, with a predominant

focus on the Caribbean, Black and African communities.

Over the past 40 years, addi tional programs and services have been added to the organization, both through internal develop ment and external partnerships. Current programs include but are not limited to counselling, settlement services, tutoring, and youth leadership programs.

Over the last year, over 1,200 individuals used Tropicana’s

counselling services, including 439 who participated in the 124 educational workshops.

On top of that, 4,274 clients were served by the Tropicana Employment Centre.

Between the range of accessible and supportive services at the centre, as well as the fun stuff including camps, recreation, social services, March break and summer camps and youth drop-in activities, Tropicana is building

a hub that truly listens to and delivers upon the needs of the community it works to support.

Raymund Guiste, Executive Director at Tropicana works tirelessly alongside his team of staff and volunteers, but it's the people whose lives Tropicana have touched make his work meaningful. As an experienced mediator and adjudicator in the Human Rights and consumer protection space, he joined Tropicana after a 25year career in the Ontario Public Service and earning his Master of Laws from Osgoode Hall.

With that social justice background and a drive to make positive change in his community and beyond, Guiste has codesigned, launched, and helped drive programs including a new RBC-backed program to deal with Black racism and the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) fund, created by the Federal government through Employment and Social Development Canada to help increase the capacity of grassroots not-for-profit organizations serving Black communities in Canada.

He has had the privilege of seeing the organization’s work touch youth and children through daycare and educational programs, helping them build their futures.

"With all these initiatives and programs, I truly see Tropicana as a multi-service agency that will bring all of those programs together in a coherent way," Guiste shared. "As a member of the Intermediary Network for the Government of Canada's, SBCCI, Tropicana Community Services has helped to allocate and award over $1.3 million in funding to 37 grassroots organizations serving the Black community."

While Tropicana has achieved much, Guiste still sees that there is more work to be done. “We’re never overstaffed with volunteers. Or donors. There is so much to be done and we welcome ev eryone from the community to help us.”

Your support can be a stepping stone for lasting change in your community. Learn more, volunteer, and donate at tropicanacommunity.org

Have Yourself a Merry Green Christmas

RAYE MOCIOIU

Gifts, food, and Christmas trees, oh my! The jolliest time of year is full of seasonal fun and decor, but between the presents and the decked-out trees, the holidays can often become wasteful and harmful to the environment. The tree is the centrepiece of Christmas festivities, but the debate between a real or artificial Christmas tree can be complicated and confusing. Which is better for the environment? Is it possible to have a sustainable and eco-friendly Christmas tree? The good news is that there are endless ways to introduce sustainability into your holiday plans and eco-friendly tips for every kind of tree.

THE BENEFITS OF LIVE TREES

Bringing a live Christmas tree into your home isn’t as strange as it sounds! Real trees have real benefits, like swapping harmful chemicals and plastics for natural phytoncides (wood essential oils)

that can boost health and reduce stress. Live trees absorb carbon dioxide and are compostable at the end of their use, which is an other plus for the environment.

Aside from composting, some wildlife shelters even accept live Christmas trees for conservation and habitat projects for injured creatures. To get and give the most from your tree shopping, opt for a farm that reduces or avoids pesticides and herbi cides and tree lots that donate to community causes—’tis the season for giving, after all! When selecting your live tree, look for long, full branches and a large root ball that’s not frozen—this will reduce the shock of your warm house to the tree. Your tree stand should also accommodate the root ball; a large container packed with sawdust, peat moss or shredded newspaper and draped over with a cloth will keep moisture in so your tree looks and feels its best.

O SUSTAINABLE TREE

If live trees are a little too complicated, there are other

ways to bring some sustainable joy into your holiday plans. An indoor potted tree is a great choice for small spaces and can be kept as decor all year round! A Norfolk Island pine is perfect for adept plant parents and makes a lovely Christmas tree when decked out in ornaments and lights. Many garden markets across the country, including Evergreen Brickworks Garden Market in Toronto, will let you select a live potted tree to keep indoors over the holidays and plant in the spring.

If you prefer an artificial tree but still want to take steps toward an eco-friendly holiday, tree rentals are becoming more common and accessible. Artificial trees understandably produce more greenhouse gases than real trees—a 6.5ft artificial tree has a carbon footprint of about 40kg of greenhouse gas emissions, more than twice the amount of a natural tree that ends up in a landfill. However, this can change if the artificial tree is

kept in circulation for years— ideally between eight and 20 to minimize the environmental impact. If you can find a good quality tree secondhand and take good care of it, it can continue its journey for many years after you’re finished with it. Similarly, buying an artificial tree from a charity shop is a great way to give a second life to a tree that has already brought holiday joy to another household.

A DIY HOLIDAY

Another option for small spaces and creative crafters is to make your own Christmas tree! The most sustainable DIY projects are made with existing materials, so look for materials that could use upcycling. You can put together a tree with recycled newspapers, cardboard, wood, and even books! Complete the look with DIY decorations, like handcrafted ornaments, dried fruit, origami stars, and recycled wrapping paper for the gifts under the tree.

Inspired by Faith to Act for Justice

For almost 60 years, Citizens for Public Justice (CPJ) has engaged with the question: What are the political and social implications of the Golden Rule (do unto others as you would have them do unto you) in Canadian public policy? Through years of advo cacy, we have walked with faith

communities and individuals to understand our collective role in advocating for justice at the sys temic level.

We hold teachings like the Golden Rule and beliefs in the inherent dignity and value of all people and creation call us to rec ognize our interconnectedness and

to live in harmony. Rather than buying into the myths of scarcity, scapegoating, or superiority, faith can help us imagine another way of engaging with one another and our natural environment. The belief in the inherent dignity and value of all, and the recognition that our well-being is bound up together, can help us reimagine our systems and institutions.

Whether or not we are liv ing it ourselves, the violence and oppression faced by Black, Indigenous, and racialized peo ple, the 2SLGBTQQIA+ com munity, disabled people, refugees and migrants, and those living in poverty and precarity can not—and must not—be ignored by people of faith. Nor can we ignore the degradation of our natural environment and rising global temperatures.

CPJ is a national, progressive organization of members who are inspired by faith to act for social and environmental justice in Canadian public policy. While CPJ has its roots in the Christian tradition, we partner regularly with other faith groups and

non-faith-based groups, building solidarity across broader advocacy movements. CPJ’s work focuses on three key policy areas: poverty eradication in Canada, climate justice, and refugee and migrant rights. For more than 50 years, justice-oriented people of faith, along with churches and religious orders, and members from the broader advocacy community have joined together to build a more just and sustainable society.

Engaging in the work of jus tice requires humility, transpar ency, and accountability. This is particularly true given the harms that ensue when faith and poli tics are not aligned with justice. By aligning ourselves with those experiencing oppression and rec ognizing the wisdom and expertise they bring, CPJ and our partners seek to amplify the voices of people typically marginalized from our political decision-making pro cesses, ensuring that our public policies are equitable and effective.

Building on this input and ex perience, CPJ develops resources and materials, learning opportu nities, and non-partisan advocacy

campaigns to mobilize justice-ori ented people of faith and others in the broader advocacy movement in our shared pursuit of justice. We meet with parliamentarians at the federal level to provide effective and equitable policy recommendations, as well as advice on creating deci sion-making processes that are more inclusive and transparent. Ground ed in anti-oppressive, rights-based approaches, we call for govern ments, industry, and residents of Canada to work together for the common good—a far cry from the current status quo. We believe faith and advoca cy have a critical role to play in building a better future. Working together, may it be so.

To learn more about CPJ and to become a member, please visit our website at cpj.ca To stay up to date with our campaigns and events, follow us on Twitter (@publicjustice), Facebook (@ citizensforpublicjustice), Instagram (@citizensforpublicjustice), and LinkedIn (Citizens for Public Justice) or subscribe to our monthly newsletter at cpj.ca/jen.

© UNSPLASH/ ALSU VERSHININA

© PHOTO COURTESY OF TROPICANA COMMUNITY SERVICES

We helped...

Nadia with counselling, Brenda with settlement services, Narayan with childcare, Hosseini with employment training, Keerthy with personal development, Cheryl with employment services. And so many others with so much more.

The power of positive, solution-based journalism.

Seeing Her Smile and Her Dreams Come to Life

Three-year-old Yvette, who lives in northern Burundi, struggled to see. Her mother worried about her daughter’s happiness and future opportunities. Burundi, a lowincome country in East Africa, has only 16 ophthalmologists to treat a population of almost 12 million people.

Yvette’s mother finally found a doctor to examine her daughter’s eyes and was relieved when told it was just allergies. That respite was short-lived when the medicine provided didn’t help Yvette’s vision. Using the little money the family had earned from farming, Yvette’s mother took her daughter to several hospitals hoping to find a treatment. Unfortunately, the hospitals didn’t have an ophthalmologist.

When Yvette was old enough to go to school, her mother’s fears for her future increased. Yvette couldn’t see clearly enough to follow the lessons or read her textbooks. She was forced to drop out of school and became isolated and depressed. Yvette rarely smiled.

“Unfortunately, without locally available eye care services, children

in low-income countries, just like Yvette, often don’t get the care they need and deserve. Poor vision can result in children dropping out of or performing badly in school, social exclusion, violence and bullying; ultimately limiting their future socio-economic potential. That’s why Seva Canada donors fund eye screenings, glasses and surgeries for thousands of children in low-income countries each year. These children are our collective future and when they can see and succeed, we all succeed,” said Penny Lyons, Executive Director of Seva Canada (seva.ca).

With little hope remaining, the now eight-year-old Yvette and her mother made the treacherous

and long trip to Bujumbura, the capital city of Burundi. There they visited the CTSOE (Tertiary Child Eye Health Center), the only hospital in Burundi capable of treating children with severe visual impairment and blindness.

At the CTSOE, Yvette was examined by the ophthalmologist who diagnosed her with cataract. Thanks to the generosity of Seva Canada donors, Yvette’s sightrestoring surgery was free of charge. Yvette’s mother couldn’t contain her excitement and relief! “I am happy she can smile now. She will be able to go back to school and follow along in class! She can follow her dreams!”

Book App Connects Ukrainian Fathers With Refugee Children

When Ruslan Mykhalchenko leaves his family in the Netherlands to return home to Ukraine, one of the things he will miss most is reading his five-year-old daughter Olivia a bedtime story.

It's a harsh reality for Mykhalchenko and countless Ukrainian fathers who have been separated from their families by the war with Russia, now entering the tenth month.

Martial law in Ukraine prevents men aged between 18 and 60 from leaving the country. Mykhalchenko, who works with an NGO in Ukraine, was able to snatch some time with his refugee family in the Netherlands while collecting an aid delivery.

Now, an audiobook app, "Better Time Stories" makes it possible for Olivia to hear her dad's voice when she goes to sleep at night, even when they're apart.

The app, which is funded

by donations, offers five titles selected to help children process the trauma of war and is aimed at kids from three to seven years old.

Mykhalchenko, 41, recorded himself reading Olivia's new favourite book, "101 Lighthouses," about a father who counts lighthouses with his son to help him fall asleep.

"This book is very special to me, because (Olivia) is far from me, from my heart," Mykhalchenko said, as he struggled to contain his emotion during a recent reunion in Rotterdam.

The interactive books come with a QR code that, when scanned or tapped, opens an app with an audiobook version. The app also allows families to send a link so that fathers can record their own audio version, which then appears in the app.

Fathers can see the picture books online and record

their audio page by page. If unwanted noises like air-raid alarms disturb their reading, they can re-record sections.

The story app was created by Andriy Shmyhelskyy, an Amsterdam-based social tech entrepreneur originally from Ukraine. Shmyhelskyy, who has lived in the Netherlands since 2014, wanted to help refugee families stay connected with men who stayed behind in Ukraine.

"I wanted books that will help mother and child to work to gether and through this emotion al distress (of) what is basically a separation," he told Reuters.

According to the United Nations refugee agency UNHCR, 90 per cent of the more than seven million refugees from Ukraine are women and children. In a recent UNHCR survey, more than three-quarters of all refugees

questioned said they had suffered a family separation.

Packages with five bilingual books in Ukrainian and Dutch, or Ukrainian and German, can be requested by refugee families from the Better Time Stories website.

Using donations received since late September, around 1,000 orders have been accepted in the Netherlands, of which 200 have already been delivered. Shipments for the German language version have not started yet, Shmyhelskyy said.

The mailed package, which includes all five books to accompany the app, costs 15 euros.

Yulia Bilan, a mother of two sons, is eight months pregnant and has been living as a single parent in The Hague since the war broke out. Her husband remains in Bucha, near Kyiv.

Her boys Ilja, 10, and Pasha,

11, are too old for picture books but were happy to receive their first Ukrainian books in months, which they are reading to their unborn sister.

The books are helping her family process difficult emotions, Bilan said, as her son Pasha showed visitors his favourite, a book called "The Day War Came To Rondo".

Mykhalchenko said he will savour reading to Olivia until he drives back to Ukraine next week, leaving behind his wife, 37-year-old Alla. He lives in Mykolaiv, a city near the Black Sea that is the target of frequent Russian missile attacks.

Alla said the audiobooks her husband recorded have helped her feel less alone.

"Before we fall asleep we listen to his voice and fall asleep more safe, more quiet," she said. —Reuters

Children Face Perfect Storm of Climate Risk, Poverty, and Hunger

Two million homes destroyed or damaged. Schools and hospitals washed away or left in ruins. For months on end, floods have dev astated Pakistan and left large areas underwater.

For children, the climate cri sis is now attacking them on several fronts, leading to short ages of food, shelter, medicine and education.

“Children’s dependence on adults and their need for care makes them even more vul nerable. The aftermath of the floods is bringing more risks to children—hunger, disease, lack of healthcare and protection,” said Rabia Rauf, a Disaster Risk Reduction Specialist with Save the Children in Pakistan.

Rauf often spends three or four hours driving to flood-hit villages to deliver food rations to children and families. “Many children are now wandering around on their own, having lost their homes and their families,” she added.

They are among a vast and growing number of children around the world who face multiple, overlapping risks

from climate change, poverty and hunger. An estimated 774 million—nearly a third of the world’s child population—are living with the dual impacts of poverty and high climate risk, according to Generation Hope, a new Save the Children report.

It draws on the experiences and insights of 54,000 children in 15 countries surveyed this year, including 1,200 children in Canada. The report reveals that 80 per cent of all children are affected by at least one extreme climate event a year. It also shows how the climate and poverty risks are worsening the global food, nutrition and cost of living cri sis that is causing 345 million people in 82 countries to face a severe lack of food.

Of the Canadian children in terviewed, a staggering 88 per cent said they have noticed cli mate change and/or inequality affect the world around them.

“The connection between climate change and inequality has created a perfect storm for nearly a third of the world’s chil dren,” said Danny Glenwright, President and CEO of Save the

Children Canada. “They are facing more extreme weather events, with those living in the greatest degree of poverty having the least protection and ability to recover.”

"Rapid intervention and lead ership from high-income coun tries, like Canada, is critical,"

added Glenwright. “And, along with other global decision-mak ers, Canada’s leaders can help to play a vital role by including children in the decision-mak ing process around climate change commitments.”

Glenwright noted that Canadians could be part of

the movement to address climate change by supporting organizations like Save the Children, which both address the effects of the crisis in programs across the globe and advocate for children’s voices to be heard.

Save the Children’s report also reveals that children born in 2020 will experience eight times as many river floods as children born in 1960. In Malawi, Luciano lost his brother and his home to a deadly storm in January. Now the 12-yearold, who lives in a refugee camp, faces the threat of hunger.

His family lived on an island devastated by Tropical Storm Ana, which killed dozens and left hundreds of thousands homeless in southeastern Africa.

“All we managed to save was a few of our clothes. My little brother was on top of the house. It collapsed and suddenly he was gone,” said Luciano. “At the camp we do not eat enough food. I have lost some weight. But I have hope and I would like to live the life I lived before the floods.”

UKRAINIAN FAMILY MYKHALCHENKO READ AND LISTEN TO BETTER TIME STORIES, A PROJECT INTRODUCED FOR UKRAINIAN CHILDREN WHO ARE SEPERATED FROM THEIR FAMILIES IN ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS OCTOBER 25, 2022. © REUTERS/PIROSCHKA VAN DE WOUW

SONI STANDS WITH HER FAMILY IN FRONT OF HER TEMPORARY SHELTER IN SINDH, PAKISTAN, ON SEPTEMBER 3, 2022, AFTER FLOODS

DESTROYED THEIR HOME. © COURTESY OF SAVE THE CHILDREN

Give the Gift That Helps Support Algonquin Provincial Park

As this year winds down, we hope you will include The Friends of Algonquin Park in your year-end charitable giving.

The Friends of Algonquin Park is a charitable organiza tion that works diligently to en hance the educational offerings in Algonquin Park. Like you, The Friends of Algonquin Park understand and appreciate the value of places like Algonquin Park and the importance of un derstanding what makes them truly special.

If you have ever visited Algonquin Park and walked one of its many interpretive trails, stopped in at the Visitor Centre, or strolled the exhibits at the Logging Museum, then you have witnessed firsthand some of the contributions of The Friends of Algonquin Park. This end of year fundraising campaign provides an opportunity for you to share your passion for Algonquin Park, and in turn, allow The Friends to continue to enhance and diversify the educational programs so that

future generations can make treasured memories too. There are so many ways The Friends enhance Algonquin Park, from the Experience Algonquin workshops on Algonquin specific themes to coordinating volunteers for the Adopt-A-Trail program that helps maintain the interpretive walking trails.

Whether it be through interactive interpretive events like Loggers Day and Meet the Researcher Day, educating school-aged children about the wonders of Algonquin Park through the Group Education Program, funding research to explore the plants, animals, and cultural history of the Park, or sharing it through its many publications, The Friends of Algonquin Park is dedicated to sharing the magic of natural spaces with everyone.

Many more research, inter pretive, and visitor education efforts await funding. Your contribution before the end of the year will allow The Friends

of Algonquin Park to do even more in 2023.

It is because of support from individuals like you, that The Friends of Algonquin Park is able to continue to educate peo ple of all ages about Algonquin Park to ensure future stewards of the Park.

Please consider Algonquin Park in your holiday gift plans! Your year-end tax-deductible donation will make a difference as The Friends of Algonquin Park continue to inspire generations. Please share the passion of Algonquin Park and the valuable efforts of The Friends of Algonquin Park with your family and friends.

Thank you for making Algonquin Park a priority in your year-end giving. Warm wishes for a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season from The Friends of Algonquin Park.

Make a Donation algonquinpark.on.ca/donate or call 613 637-2828 ext 239

Support Algonquin Park this Holiday Season

algonquinpark.on.ca

Walking In A Winter Wonderland: Five Christmas Markets to Explore in Ontario

Christmas cheer is in the air—returning to the public for the first time in two years. As we gather with loved ones again to celebrate the holiday, get into the Christmas spirit a little earlier with a trip to one of Ontario’s Christmas markets. There is something for everyone—and you’ll be sure to go home humming along to all your favourite holiday tunes.

WINTERFEST AT CANADA’S

WONDERLAND

November 18 to December 31

Visit Canada’s Wonderland for a one-of-a-kind holiday experience including ice-skating on Snow Flake Lake, more than a dozen live shows and holiday entertainment, millions of spectacular lights, hundreds of beautiful Christmas trees, including two 50-foot Christmas trees on International Street, and so much more.

The event is fun for the whole family and not only has exciting entertainment—but also features festive food, Christmas shopping, and so much more. And of course, exciting rides at Canada’s largest amusement park.

HOLIDAY FAIR IN NATHAN PHILLIPS

SQUARE

December 2 to December 23

Combining the charm and elegance of a Christmas market with the excitement of a

winter carnival, Holiday Fair in Nathan Phillips Square is a must visit. This year, Holiday Fair has partnered with the Cavalcade of Lights Festival to transform Nathan Phillips Square into the twinkling winter wonderland of your dreams. The market is filled with exciting vendors, which are sure to have the perfect gift for your loved ones. Also, be sure to visit the Polar Point Bar for an evening drink and take a picture with Santa Claus himself in The North Pole.

The Holiday Fair is created and organized by non-profit

Epilepsy Toronto as a way to create a vibrant new holiday experience, while raising money for epilepsy. A portion of the proceeds of the fair go towards supporting the charity’s support services.

GLOW CHRISTMAS November 30 to December 30 Holiday lovers of all ages can delight in the joys of the season at Glow Christmas— Canada’s premium indoor holiday festival. The festival has an exciting light garden, illuminated by the glow of a million twinkling lights, in

addition to a live entertainment stage, Mrs. Claus’ kitchen, the Merry Maker’s Market, and so much more.

This year’s theme is Around the World and the installations at the light garden will take you on an exciting journey through six different countries. Tickets are on sale now—you don’t want to miss out.

NIAGARA FALLS

CHRISTMAS MARKET Weekends from November 12 to December 18

The Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade, presented by

Ontario Power Generation, on November 12 kicks off the Christmas season, followed by an exciting weekend market through to mid-December in Niagara Falls.

After Santa Claus comes to town on his float, you can visit with him and Mrs. Claus every Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for photos presented by Niagara Helicopters. Once you’ve had a visit with the big man, shop through local businesses and vendors to find the perfect gift, stroll through interactive light displays, enjoy live music and have an exciting evening with family and friends.

CHRISTMAS LAND WITH POLAR EXPRESS AND NIEMI’S FAMILY FARM

Weekends from November 12 to December 22

With a visit to Niemi’s Christmas Village, you can meet Santa in his workshop, and even take an exciting ride on the Polar Express. Niemi’s Christmas Village in Mount Albert transforms into a magical Christmas land that’s fun for the whole family.

The Polar Express takes you around the farm to get up close and personal with the farm animals, take a sneak peek at Santa in his workshop, ending off at the bonfire for some delicious s’mores. The Polar Express Ride is so exciting, you’ll come back year after year.

Support for Those With Lung Disease During the Darkest Months of the Year Is Critical

TAWNY BARRATT

As we enter the holiday season and then move into what men tal health experts suggest may be the darkest months of the year (January and February), support for those struggling with lung disease is critical.

During this time, the Lung Health Foundation will continue to provide programs and services at no charge for those diagnosed

with lung disease, those currently living with their diagnosis, and for life afterwards.

MaryAnn, a lung cancer sur vivor, was shocked when she re ceived her lung cancer diagnosis, but her approach to her diag nosis became straightforward. She wanted to learn as much as she possibly could about her dis ease, her treatment options, her prognosis and what her quality of life could look like. She spent

time on the website at www. lunghealth.ca, and the more she learned, the more empowered MaryAnn became—to the point that she found purpose in her di agnosis. As her confidence built, she discovered that she could talk about what it was like to be di agnosed with lung cancer, the stigma associated with it, and the insensitive questions that she would be asked after revealing that she had lung cancer.

Over time, Lung Health Foun dation has provided MaryAnn with a platform to talk to others about her lived experience.

“The programs and services at the Lung Health Foundation encourages those of us with lung disease the opportunity to empower each other, giving us the confidence to take control of our own patient journey,” MaryAnn said.

For other patients, there are other areas of support available at www.lunghealth.ca. The Lung Health Support Line and online chat option is available free of

charge, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET and is monitored by two highly qualified respirologists. People with lung disease can have their confidential questions answered as they continue to navigate the uncertainty of their diagnosis.

Lung Health Foundation’s virtual support groups are also available at no cost and are held monthly throughout the year. Two support groups are available—one to support those living with lung disease and another for caregivers, who often need their own support group as caring for a loved one with lung disease can be both draining and emotional.

The support groups help participants understand that they’re not alone and that lung disease does not discriminate. Through support groups, stig mas and stereotypes surrounding lung disease can be addressed and dismantled.

The Lung Health Foundation’s website and online learning centre

are available 24/7, with down loadable resources like digital toolkits and action plans. It’s an empowering first step for those wanting to begin their lung health journey by learning as much as they can about their diagnosis before moving on to other areas of support.

With the support of generous donors and funders, the Lung Health Foundation will contin ue to operate its programs yearround as they expand its services across Canada.

Your donation will help the 30,000 Canadians that will be diagnosed this year with lung cancer, the one million Canadians living with COPD without knowing it, and the 850,000 Canadian children living with asthma.

Lung Health Starts Now— and begins with you.

To make your holiday donation today, please visit the Lung Health Foundation’s website at www.lunghealth.ca/globegifts

© COURTESY OF HOLIDAY FAIR IN NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE

Together, we are greater than lung disease. Donate today at lunghealth.ca/globegifts

“Ability Online Has Already Changed My Life”

MICHELLE MCCLURE

That’s just one example of the heartwarming feedback I’ve re ceived over the years as Executive Director of Ability Online. It’s another reminder that creating a sense of belonging and commu nity is crucial and worthwhile. Many things have changed since we started over 30 years ago, but the need for young people with disabilities and health challenges to connect with others in a safe, judgement-free environment hasn’t. Social isolation wasn’t new for them when we were all impacted by the pandemic. It just got worse.

We have separate online communities for youth, young adults, and their caregivers and families. They all promote inclusion, respect, personal growth, mental well-being, and the sharing of lived experiences. These foundations are the same as in 1990 when Dr. Arlette Lefebvre set up Ability Online. As a psychiatrist at the Hospital for Sick Children, she saw the social isolation of young patients

due to chronic hospitalization and physical limitations alongside the potential of the web to level the playing field. At the time, I was a Recreation Therapist at what is now known as Holland Bloorview Children’s Rehabilitation Hospital. On day two, I brought Ability Online’s initial online bulletin board system to my clients—teens with head injuries.

We’ve grown since those early days to welcome a much broad er audience. Those seeking a safe haven. A place free from the fear of bullying or disrespect, both online and in person. Our reach to those more vulnerable among us also now extends across Canada and the USA.

We’ve also evolved from a simple online bulletin board to a fully ac cessible, secure, and mobile-friend ly community platform. The many features are designed to engage and connect members—discussion ar eas grouped by topics of interest, live chat sessions, blog-style “Jour ney” posting, and access to many curated resources.

I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformation of our youth and

young adult members—their in crease in self-esteem, confidence, friendships, and independence. I hear stories about members not wanting to miss the weekly chat night while in the hospital or even delaying the start of family birthday celebrations! It’s also no surprise that many take on a men torship role to help others based on their experiences. Or that our student volunteers often want to stay on after their college or uni versity placement ends.

Let’s not forget our unsung heroes—family caregivers. They often need just as much care and support as their children. To feel that they’re not alone in the seem ingly unique and daily challenges they can face. Feedback like “it’s been my shoulder to cry on” re minds me of the value we’re able to share with them—a welcoming and understanding community of peer support, professional help, and resources.

None of this would be possible without the supporters whose generosity we heavily rely on, and I thank you all. To mention just a few, I’m thrilled that

Ready Commitment

the Petro-Canada CareMakers Foundation,

Become part of our community—a member, supporter, or community partner. Learn more at abilityonline.org

Canadians Coming Together to Support Families in Need

ALLIE MURRAY

While Christmas is seen as the season of joy, gift giving, and time with loved ones, the holiday season can be just the opposite for low-income families.

Widely recognized as the season of giving, Canadians step up year after year to support families in need— including the volunteers at Toys for Tots Canada.

Toys for Tots Canada gives toys to children in low-income families at Christmas time— accepting donations of toys in London, Toronto, and the Greater Toronto Area. The Canadian charity works through a partnership with veterans and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces to provide toys to children in need, as well as partnering with the Senate of Canada to be able to support as many Canadians as possible.

“We work to address and prevent specific problems faced by families and their supporting charity organizations by providing toys to children who

would otherwise go without during a major religious holiday and provide toys throughout the calendar year to local emergency and social agencies to distribute to children during catastrophic circumstances,” President Robert Krizanec explained.

During the 2021 Christmas season, Toys for Tots Canada donated more than 5,000 toy hampers to children across

the country—including in the GTA and remote Indigenous communities such as Fort Smith and Aklavi in Northwest Territories, and Rankin Inlet in Nunavut.

This year, the team is working towards donating to children in Halifax, Ottawa, and Indigenous communities in addition to London and the Greater Toronto Area.

Donations are accepted at the beginning of December at Toys for Tots Canada’s retail partners in their partnered communities. The team accepts donations right up to December 23 to ensure that every child on their list gets a gift. However, the sooner toys are donated, the faster they can deliver to children in need.

Donations can be made in

London, Toronto, and Ottawa at a variety of retail locations. In addition to toy donations, the charity accepts monetary donations year round, which aid them in their work during the holiday season.

The organization is completely volunteer-run and they rely on their team of volunteers to organize, sort, and deliver toy hampers to families. The toys are sorted according to age and gender, which are packed into hampers consisting of about five gifts in each.

Last Christmas, Toys for Tots Canada worked with a variety of media partners, including CTV London, who hosted an event called One Stop Holiday Drop where they accepted donations for the charity.

“Every contribution helps, small or large,” the team shared on social media. “There are several ways to help ensure every family in need has gifts for their children over the holidays.”

Toys for Tots Canada accepts donations of new, unwrapped toys for kids aged newborn to 14.

Giving Gifts of Goodness This Holiday Season

Vidushan was once part of the 85 per cent of unemployed young adults on the autism spectrum in Ontario.

“Life after high school was very difficult,” Dushy, mother of Vidushan, explained. “There were not a lot of services, not a lot of opportunities for him to grow. He stayed at home, and all the progress Vidushan had made in school was quickly disappearing. We were desperate.”

Young people like Vidushan are the reason why the SAAAC Autism Centre, a Toronto-based charity, created the Goodness Gift. Goodness Gift is a gifting company that trains and hires individuals with exceptionalities.

“Our intention with the Goodness Gift is to amplify good,” Jallaja Pararajasingham, Manager of the Goodness Gift, shared. “When you buy from us, you are not only receiving high-quality, locally sourced goods, but you are actively pro viding employment opportuni ties to deserving individuals.”

Goodness Gift creates an op portunity to feel good and do

good by providing support for those struggling to maintain employment due to the barriers that exist. This seemingly small gesture changes lives in the long term by empowering people to contribute to the workforce in a meaningful way.

The Goodness Gift provides in dividuals aged 18+ with job-specif ic training and paid employment in areas of retail fulfillment, ware house management, and inventory management. At the same time,

this social enterprise carefully cu rates each box while highlighting local businesses and other organi zations that prioritize giving back and spreading joy. In 2022-2023, Goodness Gift looks to hire 21 individuals parttime to support the growing operations. The enterprise provides job training, soft skills training, and other accommodations, such as job coaches, to support employees master their tasks. When given the right training and the right

opportunities, what sets people apart can also help them stand out.

“Ultimately, our goal with Goodness Gift is to provide in clusive employment opportunities for individuals with exceptionali ties,” Pararajasingham said. “Our company goes beyond selling beautiful products. We strive to empower our employees to build meaningful and fulfilling lives.”

This holiday season, socially conscious gifting is on the rise.

From recycled and upcycled

clothing and home decor to goods crafted and sold right here in our communities, giving feels even better when your gifts have an impact. The Goodness Gift is a leading option for premium, socially conscious gift-giving, and both you and your giftee will feel great knowing that your gift is changing lives for the better.

ABOUT THE SAAAC AUTISM CENTRE

The SAAAC Autism Centre is a Toronto-based charity whose mis sion is to make autism services equitable for all Canadians. The Centre provides culturally respon sive autism services targeting cul turally and linguistically diverse families. Using a multi-disci plinary approach, our Centre offers a dynamic range of services that support the development of individuals on the autism spec trum at all life stages, along with their caregivers.

Learn more and order your Goodness Gift today at goodnessgift.com @thegoodnessgift

Sephora Canada’s commitment to belonging through building confidence resulted in “Classes for Confidence” for our young adult members, and I am also grateful for their promotional and financial support. I’d like to thank the TD

program,

The Echo Foundation, and the team at

Synergiq Solutions, who bring our members together on their stateof-the-art community platform. Join us. Together, we can reach our potential!

LONG-TERM COMMUNITY MEMBER AND MENTOR, KRISTIN, PROUDLY WEARS HER ABILITY ONLINE T-SHIRT! © KARIN LAINE

Virtual Reality at Shriners Hospitals for Children - Canada

Virtual reality (VR) is an immer sive technology that brings chil dren into a 3D imaginary world that looks and feels real. Children put on a VR headset, known as a head-mounted display, and use controllers to interact with the imaginary world. This technology has been used as a distraction tool to help children cope with pain and anxiety during medical procedures.

Reggie Hamdy, M.D., and Argerie Tsimicalis, RN, Ph.D., at Shriners Children’s Canada, have conducted studies on the use of VR with patients since 2019. The main goal was to gather evidence on whether VR could be seamlessly introduced into clinical practice to help children manage procedural pain and anxiety.

With patients at Shriners Hospitals for Children - Canada in Montréal, children play an interactive and immersive game, DREAM, during a medical procedure where they need to catch the balloons and diamonds stolen by purple trolls. This form of distraction is used for example, during the removal of orthopedic

pins in the cast room or IVs in the treatment room.

“Having surgery, resetting a broken bone or starting an IV can be scary and painful for children. Virtual reality has been found to help children in these situations, using distraction to reduce pain and alleviate their fears. During these stressful situations, the pa tients, through the use of VR, en ter a calm, imaginary world,” said Bryan Tompkins, M.D., one of the pediatric orthopedic surgeons at Shriners Children’s Spokane. Shriners Hospitals for Children - Canada is currently training healthcare professionals as VR Champions, so they may have their own VR headset and use it with their patients. Our first VR Champion is Angie Gugliotti, a child life specialist who already helps children cope with pain and anxiety using various nonpharmacological tools and now can offer VR distraction to patients. “Since virtual reality is an electronic game it also appeals to today’s generation of children and teenagers as they spend much time

immersed in the digital world. Virtual reality is an additional tool in our toolbox,” said Angie.

Improving our young patients’ experiences through therapeutic intervention and new technology such as virtual reality can help to change the perception of a hospital and anxiety-provoking experienc es. VR therapy has the potential to revolutionize the standard of care, as ultimately the hope is that non-pharmaceutical pain man agement alternatives will reduce reliance on painkillers.

Learn more about how Shriners Children’s is improving the lives of children at shrinerscanada.org

Rethinking the Meaning of Good Food

Every night, one in nine people go to bed hungry. This fact is the driving force behind Good Food For Good, a BIPOC woman-owned organic food company with a range of award-winning sauces.

Before Richa Gupta started Good Food for Good in 2013, she was on a mission to answer the question: How do you make eating healthy easy and delicious while making a difference in the world? What if you made healthier, delicious meals for everyone and donated meals for those in need at the same time?

“I grew up in a family where my mum cooked fresh food, three times a day,” shared Gupta. “So even just grabbing a pizza for dinner, as a working mom, I had so much guilt over not being able to cook healthy food for my kids. Anything that my mother did for me was the best that I wanted to do for my own child.”

As a mother, Gupta found that it was challenging to feed her family with good, nutritious

food on busy nights—too often, the easy and convenient dinner options lack in nutritional value, making families choose between convenience and healthy eating. Gupta was driven to make a difference

in the world, and she saw an opportunity to do both at the same time.

She started Good Food for Good using ingredients that you can find in your own kitchen, giving every product

that beloved homemade feel without any compromising for convenience. Their line of ketchup, barbecue sauces, and homemade vegan cooking sauces are USDA-certified organic, sweetened only with

dates, and free of gluten, refined sugars, soy, dairy, and preservatives. If you wouldn’t add it to your homemade meals, you won’t find it in Good Food for Good’s sauces. No longer would families have to choose between a quick and convenient meal or a healthy and nutritious one—they could have both!

Through their Buy One, Feed One program, the company donates one meal for every single jar of sauce sold, combating hunger in partnership with food banks and nonprofit organizations like Food Banks Canada, LA Food Bank and the Akshaya Patra Foundation. Through these partnerships, Good Food for Good has donated over 1.5 million meals across the U.S., Canada and India.

Good food should make you feel good, inside and out. Good Food for Good makes it easy to put your health first without sacrificing flavour and easier still to support communities across the world, so no one has to go to bed hungry.

Fostering Community Well-Being

Poverty is a community issue. Mental health is a community issue. Hous ing, food security, isolation and ed ucation are all community issues.

For Birchmount Bluffs Neigh bourhood Centre (BBNC), these issues are the daily calls to action behind the variety of programs and services offered to commu nity residents.

BBNC works to foster social in clusion, develop skills and abilities, and collaborate with partners to fa cilitate access to various flexible and responsive programs and services.

Essentially, BBNC envisions a strong and inclusive neighbourhood in which community members ful ly participate in opportunities that enhance the well-being of all.

By taking a holistic approach, BBNC works with individuals, families and broader community residents to address and counter the impacts of many critical societal is sues and concerns.

BBNC takes a grassroots ap proach, connects with residents to understand their needs, and works with community members to create opportunities for change.

In southwest Scarborough, the

community served by BBNC, the child and family poverty rate is between 8.9 and 70.6 per cent!

The average participant in BBNC’s SHARE365 Poverty Reduction pro gram has $7 to $15 daily for food, transportation and clothing. Imag ine having to make the decision between feeding your family and buying sanitary products for your teenage daughters. Imagine decid ing between toilet paper and a tran sit ride to a medical appointment.

No one should have to make choic es like this but these are only two of the very real stories heard by community participants.

There is a brighter future ahead through connection, support and the care provided in all service areas.

Utilizing an intentional wrap around approach and philosophy, BBNC begins addressing these crucial community concerns at a young age and continues through the developmental stages to

create opportunities for growth and change. Through BBNC’s program ming, community residents have access to a wide range of programs and services that address these so cial issues. Through participation in workshops, training programs, health and wellness opportunities, EarlyON Child & Family Centre programs, the licensed Nursery School and Youth programs, em ployment opportunities, seniors and active and able programs, as

well as the support of trained staff and volunteers, one begins to see a difference in life quality. All of this is possible through the inclusive pro gramming offered through BBNC.

However, none of this is possible without the support of the commu nity. This pandemic has highlighted the inequities across Canada. These were issues prior to the pandemic, but COVID-19 has only served to exacerbate conditions. With the spread of COVID-19 intersect ing in areas of high poverty, dense low-income housing and with res idents who are Black, Indigenous and people of colour, BBNC has contributed to speedy responses in the development of person-centred approaches of targeted support.

We may not be able to rush our way to a better place, but we can take the care needed to make sure that we are getting there together.

Your support has never been more appreciated than at this time and contributes to the much-needed work happening in our communities.

Learn more and donate at bbnc.ca

© COURTESY OF SHRINERS HOSPITALS FOR CHILDREN - CANADA

RICHA GUPTA (THIRD FROM LEFT) AND THE TEAM GOOD FOOD FOR GOOD © 2020 FUNGKE IMAGES

Mild Gouda: The Goes-With-Everything Favourite!

Descended from a long line of cheesemakers, the Bergeron fami ly has been developing its expertise in Saint-Antoine-De-Tilly in the Chaudière-Appalaches region for more than 30 years. The passion and cheese-making knowledge, passed down from generation to generation, helped the family devel op the signature Bergeron flavour. Today, the company’s mission is to position Fromagerie Bergeron as a leader in the cheese industry and to remain committed to preserving the unique character and taste of a Nordic terroir that’s all its own.

Highly versatile Gouda is a crowd favourite for a reason. This firm orange-hued, wax-coated cheese, ripened for eight to 12 weeks, is made with pasteurized cow’s milk.

Use it to gratinate your meals, snacks, or tastings. Melt it on your vegetables or put it in your sauces. Try it with a blond ale, a light red wine, a dry white wine, or a rosé wine. No matter how you use it, the whole family will enjoy the mild flavour. For a cozy comfort meal packed with flavour, try these pancetta stuffed potatoes, where Fromagerie Bergeron’s mild Gouda cheese takes centre stage.

PANCETTA STUFFED POTATOES WITH MILD GOUDA

CHEESE DESIGNED AND PRODUCED BY MARIE-JOSÉE PATRY, PHOTOGRAPHER AND FOOD STYLIST.

This classic never goes out of style! Here is our version of the pancetta stuffed potato with a touch of veg etables. Enjoy your meal!

SERVINGS: 8 • PREP: 30 MIN.

• COOKING: 40 MIN.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes

• 135 g (1½ cups) broccoli in small florets

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

• 1 tbsp. garlic flower

• 175 g (6 oz) pancetta, sliced or diced 60 g (¼ cup) margarine

• 260 g (1 cup) plain lactose-free Greek yogurt

• 2 tbsp. salted herbs from the Lower St. Lawrence

• 10 g (¼ cup) fresh chives, snipped or 1 tbsp. dried

• 1 block (250 g) Bergeron mild Gouda cheese, grated

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2 Carefully wash the potatoes and cut them in half length wise. Place them on the baking sheet and bake in the middle of the oven for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

3 Meanwhile, combine broc coli florets, oil, and garlic

flower in a bowl. Halfway through cooking the pota toes, spread the broccoli on the baking sheet.

4 Over medium heat, sauté the pancetta for about 8 minutes in a skillet. Set aside on a pa per towel.

5 Coarsely chop broccoli with a knife.

6 Scoop out the flesh from the potatoes, keeping about 1.25 cm (½ inch) at the bottom.

7 In a large bowl, mash scoopedout flesh with margarine using a potato masher or fork. Add broccoli, half of the pancetta, yogurt, salted herbs, half of the chives and half of the grated cheese. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.

8 Spoon the mixture back into the potatoes. Sprinkle with remaining cheese, pancetta, and chives.

9 Place the potatoes on the bak ing sheet and bake for 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted.

10 Serve with a spring salad.

Find more recipes at fromagesbergeron.com/en/recipes

A Taste of the Season: Toasting is the Heart of All Ukrainian Celebrations

“My love for our Ukrainian toasting traditions only deepened while living in Ukraine. It is about appreciating the people you are with and honouring the reason for the gathering,” said Zirkova Vodka CEO and co-founder Katherine Vellinga. “There is a real ritual to it, starting with toasting the occasion or the host, then moving to toast ing friends, happiness or health, with the third toast to love.”

In Ukraine, a favourite toast is to exclaim “budmo” or “just be.” It acknowledges the greatness in each of us. Zirkova is committed to em powering everyone to do just that.

To be you, to appreciate and

celebrate each other, and to unite through those moments that bring us together. And in doing so, we share and honour the spirit of Ukraine.

As we gather this holiday season, let’s be grateful for those around us. As we reflect on our accomplishments and plans for the future, let’s remember that small moments also deserve big praise. Gather your loved ones for a toast to the moments big and small.

These holiday-inspired drinks combine the best of the season with the best of Ukrainian vodka. Budmo!

VODKA HOT COCOA

• 1.5oz Zirkova Vodka ½ cup whole milk

• ⅛ cup cream

• 1 tablespoon sugar

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Cocoa powder Pinch of salt

• ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Marshmallow for topping

Top with marshmallows.

REINDEER FUEL

Directions

Garnish with torched marshmallows.

© IMAGES COURTESY OF ZIRKOVA

© COURTESY OF FROMAGERIE BERGERON

Saving a Legacy: A Toast to Zirkova Vodka

What does it take to save a coun try—and a legacy? Since February of this year, we have witnessed the devastation caused by Russia's inva sion of Ukraine and the humanitar ian and refugee crisis. The impact of the attack was felt across the globe. Citizens, organizations, businesses, and governments, inspired by the bravery and courage of Ukrainians in their fight for their freedom, re sponded with an outpouring of support for Ukraine. But for one Canadian brand with deep roots in Ukraine, who has been directly im pacted by the invasion, it called for a shift in every way that it was doing business, so that it could continue to help Ukraine and its people. This is the story of Zirkova Vodka —a tale of survival, resilience, and unity.

Within hours of the invasion, Zirkova Vodka decided to donate the profits of their two vodkas, Zirkova One and Zirkova Together, sold at the LCBO, to the Canada Ukraine Foundation and its Ukrainian Humanitarian Appeal Fund. As a UkrainianCanadian company, this arose from a deep need to help the country they call home and the birthplace of vodka itself.

"Zirkova One and Together are produced in Ukraine; our mission has been to share the quality, au thenticity, and classical methods that we discovered from the origins of vodka itself. It is important now more than ever to directly support the people of Ukraine who depend on our trade for their livelihood," said Zirkova co-founder and CEO Katherine Vellinga.

Zirkova One and Zirkova Together honour both Ukrainian and Canadian roots. Zirkova One is masterfully crafted to be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, with soda, or in a classic martini. Zirkova One's unique recipe and proprietary treatment impart delicate yet distinct and complex flavours with a shockingly smooth, velvety mouthfeel and an irresistible, long finish. At the same time, Zirkova Together has delightfully aromatic spirits and perfectly mineralized water that interact to make cocktail ingredients fuse and blossom. The team behind Zirkova wanted to use their platform and products to help Ukraine and encourage other companies

to do the same. Zirkova saw an outpouring of support for their authentic Ukrainian vodka, especially once word got out that profits from the sales would go towards helping Ukrainians.

However, with the invasion, all vodka production in Ukraine was stopped and Zirkova needed to find a way to survive as a company and continue its mission to support the birthplace of vodka.

"We were looking at a situation where we would run out of stock in all warehouses at the LCBO, and we saw tremendous support for Ukraine," recalled Vellinga. "We had worked so hard for many years to build sales in almost 400 stores, and we were looking at the prospect of Zirkova being completely sold out, of empty shelves, losing all our distribution, and disappearing entirely from the second-largest retailer of alcoholic beverages in the world. Since we were the only vodka from Ukraine, it would also mean that Ukrainian vodka would disappear from the shelves entirely."

"As a team, we came together," Vellinga continued. "What could we do? We could not produce in Ukraine at that time. We had to find a way. We had always been about sharing these spirits from the birthplace of vodka itself, the histo ry and traditions, and the 'terroir' where Zirkova hails from, but it wasn't only about the land—it was also about the people. In the same way that people around the world were opening up their homes and their hearts to Ukrainians, we de cided to create a second home in Canada for Zirkova Vodka."

THE BIRTH OF UNITY

Vodka is legendary in Ukraine. The craft of vodka-making is a serious endeavour involving highly trained Master Distillers with decades of experience and recipes passed down from generation to generation, infusing the practice with authenticity, heritage, and a passion for creation. With Zirkova One and Zirkova Together quickly disappearing off the shelves, the team knew that they had to bring authentic Ukrainian vodka to Canada in a whole new way.

Zirkova Unity was made in response to the invasion to honour Ukrainian vodka-making

traditions and bring them here to Canada to give Ukrainian vodka a second home. Zirkova Unity has the distinction of being Zirkova's first Canadian distilled vodka, and is an extension of their Ukrainianmade, Ukrainian-produced, Canada-owned product line of Zirkova One and Together. At the same time, Unity was not a replacement for One or Together but rather a unique product that embodied the spirit of Ukraine while celebrating the best grains from the Canadian prairies and the water that Canada is famous around the world for. Unity is its own formulation and unique vodka experience with bold cereal notes and an effortless finish. Its purpose is to give back to Ukraine, and with each bottle sold, Zirkova vowed 100 per cent of profits to funds that support Ukraine and its people, like the Ukrainian Humanitarian Appeal Fund. "Zirkova Vodka connects vodka lovers with the origins of vodka itself, and centuries of heritage and authenticity that go into every bottle," Vellinga shared. "Every spirit began in a unique place, whether it is Scotch Whisky from Scotland, Tequila from Mexico, or Canadian Rye Whisky from Canada. Our research shows us that vodka began during the PolishLithuanian Commonwealth, in a place called Cherkaska, which is in modern-day Ukraine, and where we produce Zirkova One and Together. It has been our mission to educate people about the history of vodka, and to put this region on the map in a similar way. We never thought that we would be faced with the prospect of having to make vodka outside of Ukraine. The invasion meant we needed to find a second home in Canada to produce an entirely new vodka formulation, Zirkova Unity, worthy of the Zirkova brand and the quality that our customers expect. This would not have been possible without our Ukrainian Master Distiller. She brings world-class knowledge and methods that are virtually impossible to replicate and allowed us to preserve the heritage of Ukrainian Vodka making and bringing it to life here in Canada."

Zirkova's Master Distiller, Svitlana Protsenko, faced complex challenges while trying to get her

family to safety amid the attacks. On the day of the invasion, she drove hours to Kyiv, picked up her documents and her daughter, and called her father, who was in northeastern Ukraine, which was occupied by Russian forces quickly in the early days of the invasion.

"She told me her harrowing journey to get her father, how she then drove them to a safe house in central Ukraine, and then to western Ukraine, and finally crossed the border on foot," recalled Vellinga. "We asked her to join us, to come to Canada."

Zirkova Unity is about creating a home for Zirkova in Canada, where people have united to support and stand with Ukraine. Having Svitlana, with her 30 years of experience join them in the process of making Unity was the final touch in honouring Ukrainian vodkamaking traditions and bringing them to life in Canada.

Strengthening the connection between Canada and Ukraine, the Unity Collection features six limited-edition unique works of art on the bottles, crafted by art ists from Ukraine and Canada who are contributing not only their unique gifts and talents but also their stories.

Taking the idea from concept to shelf in less than four months, Unity is a story of hope, resil ience, and bravery, that provides a way for Canadians to give back to Ukraine.

THE SPIRIT OF ZIRKOVA Authenticity is of the utmost im portance to Zirkova, whose motto centres around being true to your self and giving others the grace to do the same. "When you are free, when you are serene and at peace, you have the ability to grow as you want, to think and feel as you want, to experience life and its wonders as you want," continued Vellinga. "We wish this way of life to con tinue. We are now finding out that these are no mere marketing words. We are learning just how sacred these words are. It really takes courage and bravery to make these words—these desires—meaningful. Our colleagues in Ukraine whose jobs and roles come together to form Zirkova are in the very fight for their lives. Every day brings possible harm to them and their

families. We wish to support the people who grow, distill, and bottle Zirkova even while their country is being attacked. They are heroes, ordinary Ukrainians who are going about their jobs so they can con tinue to live every day, so they can provide for their families, so they can help their front-line defenders, so they can donate to humanitarian efforts. In helping them, we help Ukraine. We managed to get vodka out that had been produced before the invasion and then eventually to restart production in Ukraine. It has not been easy, every part of our supply chain has been affected, from the distillery to our material suppliers who are continuing to produce under the most challeng ing circumstances, to the people who transport our product. It is not for the faint of heart. We hope that Canadians will recognize that behind Zirkova is a story of survival and determination to never give up. Our industry has always been about founders and the story be hind products, we hope that people will be inspired by Zirkova and the lengths that we have gone through to bring them the best of Ukrainian vodka—the spirit of Ukraine."

All three of Zirkova's vodkas are together on LCBO shelves, championing authenticity, truth, and of course, unity. Zirkova Unity has launched in Manitoba and will be available soon in Saskatchewan, as the grains are grown in the heart of the Canadian prairies. Whether it is Zirkova One, Zirkova Together, or Zirkova Unity, each is a unique vodka experience and gives back to Ukraine in its own way, through donating profits or by being produced in Ukraine. Ever inspired by the courage, determination, and resilience of Ukrainians, Zirkova is committed to giving back whatever they can to support their fight and continue showing the world that Ukraine, the birthplace of vodka, is far too precious to lose. Today, we raise a glass of Zirkova and support the birthplace of vodka.

You can find Zirkova One, Together, and Unity at your local LCBO. Zirkova Unity can be found at your local Liquor Mart in Manitoba and will be coming soon to retailers in Saskatchewan.

ZIRKOVA UNITY COLLECTION © SZUMSKI MEDIA

KATHERINE VELLINGA, ZIRKOVA CO-FOUNDER AND CEO

Shop St. Lawrence Market's Extended Hours This Holiday Season

This holiday season, there are even more opportunities to visit Toronto's historic St. Lawrence Market with friends and family or shop for the best selection of fresh and specialty foods for your holiday gatherings. Recently, St. Lawrence Market extended its hours of operation to include weekday evenings and Sundays.

The St. Lawrence Market's one-year hours of operation pilot project began this past July and will continue through the end of July 2023. The pilot is the result of a recent review of the Market's hours of operation, which included public feedback and an evaluation of how operational improvements can help the Market better serve residents of Toronto and visitors to the city.

THE SOUTH MARKET (MAIN BUILDING)

HOURS OF OPERATION

ARE CURRENTLY:

• Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Closed on Mondays

DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON, THERE ARE SOME SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS TO THE HOURS OF OPERATION:

• Friday, December 23, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Saturday, December 24 (Christmas Eve), 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Sunday, December 25 (Christmas Day), closed

• Saturday, December 31 (New Year's Eve), 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Sunday, January 1 (New Year's Day), closed

When customers visit the Market, they are in store for many fantastic food products and an overall world-class experience. The South Market is home to over 60 permanent vendors carrying amazing local produce, fresh meat and fish, international and specialty foods, cheese and dairy, fresh baked goods, and so much more. Once you've packed your bags with goodies, treat yourself to a fresh juice

or prepared meal like the world-famous peameal bacon sandwich, authentic European perogies or Portuguese chicken.

More information about the hours of operation pilot project and what's in store this holiday season is available on the St. Lawrence Market website: www.stlawrencemarket.com.

St. Lawrence Market is a renowned international food market featuring 120 merchants, vendors and farmers, offering fresh produce, meats and specialty items.

Serving Toronto residents and international visitors since 1803, the market is regularly recognized as one of Toronto's most popular destinations and

one of the world's top food markets. The St. Lawrence Market Complex consists of St. Lawrence Hall, the South Market and the North Market—the latter now in its temporary home at 125 The Esplanade.

For information about the St. Lawrence Market Complex, visitstlawrencemarket.com, or follow us on social media at:

StLawrenceMarket StLawrenceMkt StLawrenceMarket

© COURTESY OF ST. LAWRENCE MARKET

Holiday Eggnog Is Better With Ontario Eggs

No need to stress when you have eggs in the fridge.

With holiday plans in full swing, wouldn’t it be nice to cross some items off your list? Take en tertaining, for example. Whether it’s brunch with the family, an afternoon get-together to trim the tree, or an elegant soirée with friends, stop worrying about what to serve when there is a simple solution. Eggs!

With six grams of protein for only 70 calories, plus 13 vitamins

and minerals, you know that you are fuelling your body with excel lent nutrition to get you through those holiday events!

Egg farmers across the prov ince are proud to provide such a healthy ingredient for all of your festive baking and parties. When you buy Ontario eggs, you are supporting our more than 500 egg and pullet farm families who adhere to strict on-farm food safe ty and animal care programs. So, while you are fuelling your body

with nutrition, you can be con fident with the eggs that you put in your grocery cart!

Did you know that fresh, high-quality Ontario eggs are avail able in your local grocery store in only four to seven days? Not only is that freshness you can rely on, but eggs are so versatile they are the perfect answer for what to put on the menu for any occasion.

For recipes and much more, visit getcracking.ca

VARIATIONS

MONTE CRISTO ONE-PAN BAKE

PREP TIME: 20 MINUTES • BAKE TIME: 30 MINUTES • YIELD: 6 TO 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tbsp (30 mL) Dijon mustard

• 2 tbsp (30 mL) mayonnaise

1 large French baguette, cut into 21 slices (¾-inch or 2 cm thick)

• 7 slices deli ham, cut in half length-wise (about ¼ lb or 125 g)

• 2 ⅓ cups (575 mL) shredded Gruyere cheese, divided 5 eggs

• ½ cup (125 mL) 2% milk

• ⅛ tsp (0.5 mL) each salt and pepper

Icing sugar and preserves (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1 Preheat the oven to 375°F (190⁰C). Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch (3 L) baking dish.

2 In a small bowl, combine mustard and mayonnaise; spread on one side of each baguette slice.

3 Place prepared baking dish on counter, with the short est side facing you. Working from the top of dish, place 3 baguette slices (mustard side up), slightly propped up along the short side of the dish. Sprinkle with a ⅓ cup (75 mL) of cheese and top with 2 slices ham, overlapping (1 full slice per row). Prop the next slices of bread up against the ham and continue to layer un til no ingredients remain. You should have 7 rows in total.

4 In a medium bowl, whisk eggs and milk. Add salt and pepper; mix well. Pour evenly over the con tents in baking dish. Cov er and refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes.

5 Uncover and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot with tradi tional Monte Cristo accom paniments, icing sugar and preserves, if desired.

Tip: Substitute Swiss cheese for Gruyere for a lighter flavour.

Tip: Baguettes at your local grocery store can range in length. Look for a baguette that is 19 to 22 inches (48 to 56 cm) long.

•

• 5 eggs

• 2/3 cup (150 mL) granulated sugar

• 4 cups (1 L) 2% milk

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) nutmeg, freshly ground

• Pinch cloves

• 1/2 cup (125 mL) spiced rum (optional)

• 1 cup (250 mL) 35% whipping cream (optional)

• Ground cinnamon (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1 In a large saucepan, whisk to gether eggs and sugar until well combined. Whisk in milk. Add cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, mace, and cloves; place over medium heat and whisk gently for about 10 minutes or until mixture has small bubbles around the edge of the pan and the thermometer reaches 160°F (71°C).

2 Remove from heat and pour

through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl. Whisk in rum (if desired) and cover with plas tic wrap directly on the surface. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 2 days.

3 In a bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Dollop each cup of egg nog with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired.

Chocolate Egg Nog: Whisk in 1/2 cup (125 mL) of highquality cocoa powder into the egg and sugar mixture and continue with the recipe.

Maple Ginger Egg Nog: Omit granulated sugar and substitute 1/2 cup (125 mL) pure maple syrup. Add 1 inch (2.5 cm) piece fresh peeled ginger, thinly sliced, or 2 tsp (10 mL) ground ginger with cinnamon sticks and continue with the recipe.

Chai Egg Nog: Add ten crushed green cardamom pods and 6 black peppercorns with cinnamon sticks and continue with the recipe.

www.getcracking.ca/recipes/ classic-egg-nog

www.getcracking.ca/recipes/ monte-cristo-one-pan-bake

A twist on the classic Monte Cristo sandwich, this one-pan bake combines the sweet flavours of French toast with ham and cheese.

© IMAGES COURTESY OF EGG FARMERS OF ONTARIO

Witness the Magic of the Northern Lights

Churchill, Manitoba tops many bucket lists as an international wildlife viewing destination. While polar bears and beluga whale tours are incredible experiences in this unique northern town, a new season is drawing travellers from around the world. With its ideal spot under the auroral oval (a region centred on the Earth’s magnetic north pole), Churchill is one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights.

Adventurous travellers can catch the aurora borealis during peak viewing season this winter (February to March is the best time to go). During the late winter, the night sky in Churchill is at its clearest and darkest making it the perfect time to view this natural weather phenomenon. Gases present in the atmosphere cause the aurora to change colour resulting in the spectacular hues of green and purple. And it’s the collision of solar wind particles with these atmospheric gases that cause the light to flicker, infusing the night sky with dancing ribbons of colour.

You can witness this light show of a lifetime with a trip to Churchill, and you’ll quickly see why this northern town is a bucket-list adventure.

UNIQUE WAYS TO VIEW THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

Chasing the northern lights in Churchill is all about unique van tage points, and there are many to choose from. The Churchill Northern Studies Centre, situ ated 23 kilometres outside of the town of Churchill, provides ideal conditions for viewing the night sky. When the northern lights come out, the lights in the cen tre shut off to prevent any light pollution. There are a few options for viewing the aurora borealis, from the heated dome at the top of the centre to the outdoor ob servation deck.

Frontiers North Adventures in Churchill offers a Northern Lights and Winter Nights Adventure that departs from Winnipeg. Northern lights viewing happens from their oh-so-cozy Thanadelthur Lounge, which is situated away from town

on the other side of the frozen Churchill River, far from any light pollution. A Frontiers North itinerary also includes a visit to Dan’s Diner, a mobile Tundra Buggy dining hall hidden in the wilderness and under the northern lights, where you’ll enjoy a fine dining meal featuring regional and local fare.

Book your northern lights trip with Natural Habitat Adventures to Churchill and get exclusive access to the warm and comfortable Aurora Pod, specially designed for viewing the aurora borealis with 360-degree views

of the sky via innovative glass construction and cushioned seats. A Natural Habitat trip will also bring you to the Churchill Hotel’s prized Aurora Domes, where you’ll spend the night relaxing in the lounge or heading up to one of two viewing domes to see the lights.

Best suited for the DIY trav eller, Nanuk Operations in Churchill offers Nights Under Lights, a guided photography outing for the chance to shoot the aurora with the backdrop of a yurt tucked deep in the bore al forest. All guests get a clear

view of the lights from the yurt’s large, wrap-around deck and can head indoors to warm up near the fire with a nightcap in hand.

For the budget conscious and truly adventurous, add your name to Discover Churchill’s call list. If the lights are out before mid night, they call you and pick you up from where you’re staying for a two-to-four-hour tour with expert photographer Alex DeVries, who takes you to some of his favourite aurora viewing locations.

Beyond Boreal Expeditions is a female-owned Indigenous tour company that takes guests

around Churchill on night-on ly excursions to photograph the lights from owner Tiffany Spence’s favourite locations.

You hear Wapusk Adventures long before you see it thanks to the dozens of sled dogs who make their home at this cozy retreat nestled in the forests near Churchill. Visit with these boisterous canines and take in the lights outside, while warming up inside a fire-warmed tipi. During the day take part in a guided dogsledding adventure. Learn about the importance of dogsledding to Indigenous Peoples of the north before settling into the sled for a wild ride through the boreal forest led by dogs that just love to run.

WHERE ELSE CAN YOU SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

Riding Mountain National Park is known for regular aurora activity in the depths of winter. Book a stay at a hotel in Wasagaming, Elkhorn Resort or a winterized Parks Canada oTENTik and watch the night sky light up. Outside of Flin Flon, book a stay at Bakers Narrows Lodge where the northern lights are highly visible. Book an ice fishing package for a multi-night stay and hook a catch while taking advantage of the north’s wide open skies.

It is possible to see the northern lights as far south as Winnipeg when the conditions are just right. Download an aurora forecasting app and keep an eye out for clear nights with a high chance of discovery. It’s recommended that you head outside the perimeter to locations such as Birds Hill Provincial Park to ensure the lights of the city don’t impact your view.

With so many ways to view the northern lights in Manitoba, we recommend planning a multi-day trip to ensure you don’t miss out. Visit travelmanitoba.com to find more trip inspiration, itinerary ideas and planning tools.

DISCOVER LEGENDARY EXPERIENCES

Find unique ways to experience the northern lights at travelmanitoba.com or scan the QR Code.

© COURTESY OF TRAVEL MANITOBA

A Trip to the Islands: Explore the Road Less Travelled in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) comprises 32 aweinspiring islands, nine of which are inhabited. With its casual, unpretentious authenticity, friendly people and deep wealth of unspoiled natural attractions, our islands offer a life-renewing experience for those drawn to roads less travelled. Located in the southern Caribbean, the islands form a necklace stretching 70 miles from the main island of St. Vincent in the north to Petit St. Vincent to the south.

Those looking to escape the masses can choose from the verdant, mountainous topography and black sand beaches on the main island St. Vincent, the old world charm and golden shores of Bequia, half an hour away by ferry; or seek total seclusion on one of our island resorts in the Grenadines. Young Island, Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent offer that barefoot luxury that many crave in a resort, without the crowds. Mustique and Canouan create the backdrop for the

© DAN GALBRAITH/DETAILS GROUP

opulent villa experience, while Mayreau, with its 400-strong population, is blessed with one of the most pristine anchorages in the region. Union Island, the jump-off point to the smaller islands, is rich in local culture and bustling with small-island activity. Though uninhabited, the Tobago Cays, five islets surrounded by the longest horseshoe reef in the Caribbean, is a yachtsman’s paradise. This protected marine park is home to friendly turtles, vibrant marine life, turquoise

waters and white-sand beaches. Eco adventures abound for those looking to hike La Soufriere volcano or trying to spot the indigenous Amazona Guildingi parrot in its natural habitat on the Vermont Nature Trail. A visit to one of St. Vincent’s waterfalls will refresh the body, as will a dip in the waters of a black sand beach on the Leeward coastline. A stroll through the Botanical Gardens, the oldest in the western hemisphere and home to a sucker of the original

breadfruit tree brought to the island by Captain Bligh, will satisfy the soul.

Diving in the “critter capital of the world” will not disappoint those drawn to the underwater.

SVG boasts critter diving unparalleled outside the Coral Triangle. Among the 32 islands, scuba divers can explore more than 100 dive sites, including adrenaline-pumping drifts, blissfully uncrowded coral gardens and dramatic submarine lava flows, which coalesce into a

wonderland of caves, canyons and walls.

This group of close-knit islands is one of the most sought-after sailing destinations in the world. Plot your course through tranquil atolls stretching 64 kilometres and explore islets populated by palm trees, seabirds and turtles. The state of art marina on Canouan and several well-stocked chandleries offer complete yacht provisioning.

Whether you are looking to get married, renew your vows or spend a memorable honeymoon, the romantic islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will create a backdrop like no other. New regulations allow you to tie the knot the day you arrive, and with a host of intimate properties to choose from, you can marry on one island and honeymoon on another.

SVG is a flight away with Air Canada offering non-stop flights weekly from Nov. 4, 2022, and twice weekly from Dec. 20 throughout the winter. 106,000 Vincentians are waiting to wel come you!

CP Holiday Train Returns to the Rails in Support of Community Food Banks After Two-Year Hiatus

The Canadian Pacific (CP) Holiday Train will return to the rails this season on its first crosscontinent tour in three years, following virtual concerts in the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021. The train will again raise money, food and awareness for local food banks in communities along the CP network.

“I’m grateful to the CP team members who adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic to deliver

two exceptional virtual Holiday Train shows and to all those who continued to donate while we kept community members safe,” said Keith Creel, CP’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “The Holiday Train is all about families and communities coming together to celebrate the season and help those in need. We are excited to be back out on the rails and in our communities, taking these two beautiful trains across our

network and sharing the joy that comes with gathering in the spirit of giving.”

The 2022 tour launched on Nov. 23 with the Holiday Train’s first-ever Maine shows in Jackman, Brownville Junction and Hermon. Also for the first time, the Holiday Train hosted shows on Nov. 24 in Lac-Megantic, Sherbrooke and Farnham, QC; the first Canadian stops of 2022. The tour featured 168 live shows, including Toronto, ON, on Nov. 29; Bensenville, IL, on Dec. 2; Davenport, IA, on Dec. 3; Kansas City, MO, on Dec. 4; Calgary, AB, on Dec. 11; and a final show in Port Coquitlam, BC, on Dec. 18.

Live music is essential to the CP Holiday Train experience. This year’s performers include Alan Doyle, Tenille Townes, Mackenzie Porter and Lindsay Ell, to name a few.

Holiday Train shows are free to attend. CP asks attendees to bring a cash or non-perishable food donation if they’re able. Local food shelves will set

up collection stations at each event, with all donations made staying with the local food bank to help people in need in the community. Because local food shelves buy food at a discount, cash donations can go further than food donations to help those in need.

“Food banks and communities across Canada are so excited to see the CP Holiday Train return, as it brings together the City of Calgary to kick off the holidays and give back at the same time,” said Calgary Food Bank President and CEO James McAra. “The Calgary Food Bank is so grateful for CP’s continued support to help us build a Canada where no one goes hungry.”

Since the Holiday Train program launched in 1999, it’s raised more than $21 million and collected five million pounds of food for community food banks across North America.

“This year, more than ever, the support, awareness and goodwill that the CP Holiday Train

brings will make an impact beyond imagination to the food support programs of East Side Neighborhood Services,” said Mary Anstett, Vice President, Community Engagement for East Side Neighborhood Services in Minneapolis. “With the support that Holiday Train brings in, we can rest assured that so many will have warm nutritious food on their tables in the coldest months.”

ABOUT CANADIAN

PACIFIC

Canadian Pacific is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to major ports on the west and east coasts.

CP provides North American customers with a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise.

When the winter season hits Southwestern Ontario, it brings out two types of adventurers: those who are looking to escape from the cold days and those who fully embrace the winter weather and seek exciting winter activities outside. Just a few hours west of the GTA, Sarnia-Lambton is the perfect place for both types of winterseason explorers. Relaxing winter getaways, endless indoor and outdoor entertainment and activity options for you and your family, and a perfect backdrop of a winter wonderland along Ontario’s Blue Coast make Sarnia-Lambton your next destination to explore and create lasting winter memories. With so many choices, here are some travel ideas to help you explore your winter wonderland in Sarnia-Lambton.

GET COZY AND RELAX

Those who want to escape the colder weather and prefer a cozy getaway to relax and recharge from everyday life can pamper themselves with a complete relaxation getaway, including

high-end accommodations, mindful reflection, decadent meals, and local drinks. First, settle into your perfect accommodation location at the Colonial Hotel, Kiwi Motel in Grand Bend, or the Insignia Hotel in Sarnia. Then get pampered with a complete spa treatment at the Glass and Pillar Spa in Sarnia, or find your inner calm with yoga and meditation from Raven Heart Studio in Sarnia or West Coast Yoga Studio in Grand Bend. Finally, top off the perfect cozy and relaxing weekend by indulging in a local food and beverage pairing. With 16 different craft drink producers and amazing culinary experiences, every area of Sarnia-Lambton provides a culinary experience to complement your cozy and relaxing winter getaway.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

When the fresh snow hits the ground, it creates a perfect invitation to explore the outdoor winter wonderland in Sarnia-Lambton. Try your skill at cross-country skiing or snowshoeing over 600 km of winter trails from St. Clair to

Sarnia and throughout Lambton Shores. If you are looking for an outdoor activity for the family, the Canatara Animal Farm in Sarnia is a perfect setting to explore the shores of Ontario’s Blue Coast in Sarnia-Lambton while meeting some new furry animal friends. For those looking for a picturesque winter moment, the shorelines of Ontario’s Blue Coast in Sarnia-Lambton provide a perfect winter sunset backdrop to commemorate your amazing winter wonderland weekend.

ENTERTAINMENT FOR ALL AGES

Sometimes your winter won derland includes a little bit of both indoor and outdoor adventures for you and your family. If that sounds like your perfect winter getaway, try your hand at the new and exciting sport of disc golf at Forest Golf Club and Inn, explore one of the many museums, play a round of indoor golf at one of Sarnia-Lambton’s three indoor golf facilities, or get your game

on at District Beta’s video and VR arcade.

Whether your winter won derland is calm and relaxing, exciting and adventurous, or a mix of both, Sarnia-Lambton has so many options that you can explore and discover a per fect winter getaway.

Plan your winter wonderland getaway today at ontbluecoast.com

CANATARA

Escape the Harsh Winter with a Trip to Alabama’s Beaches

Leave your snow boots and coats at home this winter and grab your shades and sunscreen for a season spent on the beach.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer the perfect escape from the harsh, cold weather that winter brings up north. Here, you’ll discover blue skies, comfortable temperatures, and holiday events along the pristine beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

With 52 kilometres of sug ar-white sand beaches, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore. Our pristine beaches are ideal for taking long walks, watching the sunset, and casting your rod into the water. If you prefer a little adventure, search for seashells or hunt for ghost crabs at night.

Our beaches aren’t the only reason to visit, as our area of fers incredible cuisine, including fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood, mouth-watering burgers, and de licious barbecue. Pair your meal with a signature cocktail or local craft beer and savour the irresistible taste of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

You’ll love dining while listening to the sounds of local musicians or hearing the sounds of the waves crashing onto the shore.

Looking for an unforgettable meal to mark a special occasion? Make reservations at one of the area’s fine dining restaurants for a magnificent dinner at the beach. Elevate your meal and make it ex tra special when you dine at sunset with a view of the setting sun.

Eating isn’t the only thing you’ll do while here. Alabama’s beaches offer plenty of exciting activities like kayaking, fishing and birding. If you’re searching for a unique experience, try a guided pier walk with a park naturalist or go searching for dolphins on a sunset dolphin cruise. Whether you prefer ac tivities with a bit of excitement or endeavours that provide relax ation, you’re sure to find a special way to make new memories.

Reconnect with the natural beauty that surrounds you. The Alabama Gulf Coast is ready for exploration, and so many

opportunities to discover the area await you. Gulf State Park is the ultimate destination for those wanting to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Inside the park, you’ll find over 45 kilome tres of trails perfect for biking and hiking. Guided Segway tours are also available and provide a unique way to explore the park and learn about its environment.

You’ll also find endless enter tainment in the area with unique attractions, both indoors and out doors. Meet the furry friends at The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo with an animal encounter or discover the rich history of our two beach towns at one of the area’s muse ums. Alabama’s beaches are filled with one-of-a-kind spots that offer something for everyone.

Don’t forget to pack your clubs when you head to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The comfortable weather of the Alabama Gulf Coast means golfers can enjoy playing year-round. Our area boasts 15 amazing courses with fairways for those of all skill levels. Beautifully

manicured courses and sunny, blue skies provide the ideal backdrop for a round or two. You’ll soon dis cover that our courses are as mag nificent as our beautiful beaches.

Our area is brimming with arts and culture and offers guests plenty of opportunities to immerse them selves in its uniqueness. Visit the Coastal Arts Center and browse the fabulous art or get your artistic juices flowing at the Hot Shop and Clay Studio and create your own piece to take home. Travel back in time at Historic Fort Morgan and discover the location of a pivotal part of history. Stroll the grounds and explore the tunnels and bar racks of this remarkable site. Head to The Wharf for a day of dining, shopping and lots of fun. This en tertainment district is filled with fabulous restaurants and local stores, as well as the second-tallest Ferris wheel in the southeast. Get cozy and take a ride for a magnif icent view of the area.

Winter on Alabama’s beaches brings lots of fabulous events. From parades to festivals, there’s

lots of fun to be enjoyed. Dis cover the natural wonders of the area, learn about local history, and meet local artisans during our free showcase series, which highlights different topics and interests ev ery week in January and February. Then, let the good times roll and celebrate Mardi Gras beach style at one of the numerous parades in the area. Finish up the season at the Orange Beach Festival of Art on March 11-12, where you’ll browse the incredible works of talented coastal artists.

Alabama’s beaches are the per fect destination for an unforget table vacation. From incredible events and activities to exquisite cuisine and unbeatable beaches, you’ll make memories to last a lifetime while you’re here. Start planning your trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, and get ready to relax, indulge and explore the stunning white-sand beaches of Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

GulfShores.com OrangeBeach.com

...like watching the sunset over the water on an afternoon sail, relaxing on the warm sugar-white sand, or enjoying an intimate evening of fine dining.

Plan a romantic getaway on the beautiful beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

PINK

COASTAL ARTS CENTER

Give Real, Life-Saving Gifts to Children this Holiday Season

2022 has not been an easy year for children. War, rise in hunger, the climate crisis and ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to threaten the basic rights—and the future—of children globally. Their access to essential services like safe water, proper nutrition and education is being disrupted.

In Ukraine, nearly 1,000 children have been killed or injured since the war began.

Over 5.5 million children remain in dire need. Continued drought in Somalia and parts of east Africa have pushed children and families to the brink of survival.

In Somalia, a historic dry spell wit h a fifth dry rainy season has left an estimated 1.5 million children likely to be malnourished by the end of the year.

But behind every statistic is a real child and their family, like

10-month-old Ubah and her mother.

This young girl experienced malnu trition due to the continued drought in Somalia. Thankfully, through the support of UNICEF, she received a Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food called Plumpy’Nut® at a health centre. Plumpy’Nut is a life-saving, peanut-based food supplement that can help a malnourished child gain up to two pounds per week!

UNICEF is the world’s leading humanitarian organization focused on children, working in more than 190 countries to help children sur vive. This holiday season, you can help us reach more children like Ubah by giving a Survival Gift, while also honouring your loved ones with one of the most mean ingful gifts you can give.

Survival Gifts ® are real, life-sav ing items shipped on your behalf to children in some of the world’s most difficult places to be a child.

There are more than 40 gifts to choose from. Your gift will be shipped directly from the largest humanitarian warehouse in the world to kids in need of immedi ate and long-term support.

And in thanks for your gift pur chase, we’ll also send a special greeting card to the loved one you wish to honour.

Thanks to someone like you, Ubah received a Survival Gift of Plumpy’Nut Therapeutic Food, used to treat malnutrition, which helped her gain weight and en ergy quickly. But millions of children still need urgent help right now. Please consider giving today at survivalgifts.ca.

PLUMPY’NUT®

THERAPEUTIC FOOD - $14

Malnourished children need to gain weight fast. This life-saving, peanut-based food supplement

can help a child gain up to two pounds per week! This gift will provide 24 packets of pro tein-rich Plumpy’Nut to nourish eight children who are suffering from malnutrition.

2X MATCH

URGENT AID FOR UKRAINE - $50

Millions of children continue to face immediate danger due to the war in Ukraine. This gift sends urgent humanitarian aid, including life-saving nutrition, ed ucation and emergency relief to 137 children and families directly affected by the war. Thanks to an anonymous donor, all Urgent Aid for Ukraine gifts will be matched up to $250,000 until the end of 2022.

EDUCATE TWO GIRLS - $80

Despite evidence showing how central girls’ education is to their

development, gender disparities in access to education persist. There are 129 million girls out of school, while many more lack basic reading and math skills. Educated girls grow up with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.

MATCH

2X

URGENT AID FOR YEMEN - $50 Yemen remains one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. Seventy per cent of the population, includ ing 11.3 million children, is in dire need of humanitarian assistance. All Urgent Aid for Yemen gifts will be matched by The Lawrence Schafer Foundation until the end of 2022, up to $25,000.

For more information and to give now, visit survivalgifts.ca