The organization “Volunteer Canada” announced that April 19 marked the start of National Volunteer Week in Canada.

It’s a coast-to-coast-to-coast celebration of the commitment, dedication, generosity and selflessness of Canada’s almost 12.7 million volunteers. This couldn’t be more timely!

Led by Volunteer Canada and local volunteer centres, the theme this year ‘It’s time to applaud this country’s volunteers’ encourages all Canadians to loudly and proudly cheer for Canada’s volunteers.

Canada’s volunteers work tirelessly to achieve progress in their community, city and country. They give time in support of causes and programs they believe in and ask for nothing in return. Their time contributes billions of dollars to the Canadian economy every month, at last count over $55 billion per year. Their smiles bring happiness and hope.

According to Volunteer Canada, “without volunteers and their more than 160 million hours of volunteer time each month, so much of what must get done, would go undone. Meals would have no wheels. Seniors would miss medical appointments. Cats and dogs would have no foster homes. Walkways and driveways of elderly neighbours would pile up with snow.”

Community Care has established a new program to provide free delivery of groceries, medicines and essentials to seniors. Hot & frozen Meals on Wheels are available throughout The County. Reassurance calls are being made. Active living programs are offered online. Other services, such as foot care clinics, are on hold for now.

Call the office at 613-476-7493 and leave a detailed message.

Thank you to the amazing volunteers here in Prince Edward County.

You’re simply the best!

-Debbie MacDonald Moynes