News
GDI Brings Community Cheer
By Jaime Watier
Apr 3, 2020
Posted in: achievement, recognition
With everything going on in today’s world, it feels like we need “Christmas Cheer.” I know, I know, you may be thinking we just hit the Spring Solstice. But I for one would like to go back to this past December.
The Métis Addictions Council of Saskatchewan Inc. (MACSI), an organization operating our inner city communities, reached out to us this winter for a helping hand. MACSI is a treatment center for Métis people trying to battle and overcome their own personal addictions. MACSI informed us that they would have ten patients in-house over the Christmas holidays at their Saskatoon facility and that most would not be able to see their loved ones. MACSI noted that these folks had no Christmas gifts and asked if we (Gabriel Dumont Institute) could possibly help. We all know that Christmas can be a dark, lonely and sad time for most people, I couldn’t imagine the strength it takes to fight to make positive change as well.
During the Annual GDI Saskatoon Christmas Luncheon on December 19, 2019 at the Saskatoon Inn, an announcement was made with regards to the MACSI request and a collection was taken up. I am happy to say that in the two-hour time span we raised $525. Way to go GDI Staff and Board members!!
After some feverish shopping buying Maria Campbell’s “Halfbreed,” puzzles, cards, activity books and treats, each gift was beautifully wrapped and delivered to the treatment center. Director of Finance Cory McDougall and his wife were honored to represent GDI in this endeavor.
I am honored to work for such a compassionate and caring organization, staffed with such beautiful souls. Thank you Gabriel Dumont Institute Staff and Board members. I know you’ve helped shed light and hope at a time our community needed it the most.
Photo by Cory McDougall
