Carolling for a cause

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 13/01/2020 (1236 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

For the past few years, Hunter Scott has carolled with neighbours throughout his community of Garden City, raising money for Siloam Mission.

This year, I personally had an opportunity to join 10-year-old Hunter, his family, and many residents in this holiday tradition, singing carols from Silent Night to Hunter’s favourite, Jingle Bell Rock.

Hunter raised $336 this way for Siloam Mission, enough for 108 meals. “Last year we fed 80 people and this year we fed 108,” said Hunter. “I’m hoping we can raise more than $400 next year.”

Hunter was inspired when he was six, learning about philanthropy at his school, École Belmont.

“They did a lot of work at the school that year with a number of charities,” said Hunter’s mother, Tanya. “It made the children realize that they may be young, but anyone can help to make a difference. And most importantly, it helped them to learn the true meaning of Christmas.” 

That year, Hunter wrote a letter to Santa, saying, “This year I don’t want any presents because there are other ways to celebrate Christmas. I have the heart to share with people who don’t have money to buy food or a home. All I want for Christmas is to give them joy and love, a nice happy dinner and most of all to give them the Christmas spirit.”

“One day, we were driving around town,” Hunter explained, “And I saw these people on the streets. It was around Christmas, and they didn’t look happy. They looked hungry and sad. And I kind of felt bad. I’m lucky to have a home and a mother and a brother, and some people don’t have this.”

Starting with around 10 carollers, the group has now grown to nearly 40. “And the more houses we go to, the more people say ‘You let us know next year when you’re doing this. We’ll come and join you!’” said Tanya.

It is so heartwarming to see Old Kildonan’s generosity and diversity of cultures. When I joined Hunter to carol this year, I saw the way in which this was so meaningful to neighbours that come from across the world, bringing tears of joy and inspiration to many.

I always enjoy hearing about and participating in community initiatives. If you have an initiative you’d like to share, my office can be reached by email at devi@winnipeg.ca, by phone at 204-986-5264, or in-person at 646 Leila Ave.