I’ve been enjoying the visits with friends and family members these past few weeks so much! While we still have to respect social distancing protocols, being able to see them in person has been wonderful. (And being able to reopen Malary’s has of course lifted my spirits!)

One of the things I’ve found difficult these past few months is not being able to get out and about in the community to attend charitable events. This is really important to me, and it encouraged me to think of some other ways to give back from farther away.

This month I want to highlight a few of the wonderful organizations we’ve been able to support by donating our FIRMA Energywear face masks.

Surrey Urban Mission

Surrey Urban Mission serves over 2,500 hot meals per week to those in the Whalley community. It serves those who are un-housed residents, struggling with poverty and addiction, or simply need a space to connect with others.

They also have two shelter locations. And they work in conjunction with healthcare providers, mental health services and other community organizations to help move guests forward.

We were happy to donate 50 face masks to their staff and volunteers because they work tirelessly to give back to others.

 

Flatten the Curve Handmade Masks

FTC Masks was created by a group of healthcare professionals and industry experts in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. They manufacture homemade face masks. They give these to at-risk individuals, staff working in medical clinics, hospices and home support agencies. Places where access to approved personal protection equipment (PPE) is limited.

On May 9, they reached their goal of producing 2,000 handmade cloth masks made with love and donated materials! All of us at Malary’s were thrilled to be able to provide 144 cloth FIRMA Energywear face masks to help them hit their target.

 

KidSafe

KidSafe provides 450 vulnerable children and youth with safety, nutrition, and educational programming during school breaks.

They offer transportation services, nutritious meals, emotional support, educational activities and field trips. All to children who lack access to these services due to their challenging life circumstances.

We gave KidSafe 150 FIRMA face masks so their Food Pantry workers can stay healthy and protected.

 

AMA Transition House

As part of the Atira Women’s Resource Society, AMA Transition House is the first transition house of its kind in Canada for women 55 and older.

The umbrella organization, Atira Women’s Resource Society, is a not-for-profit cause. They are committed to the work of ending violence against women through various programs. They provide a range of services in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES), Burnaby, Surrey and White Rock.

Malary’s was able to donate 50 face masks for the care workers at AMA Transition House. Helping care workers stay safe while assisting women who are escaping violence.

 

Whether it’s your time, money or a product or service, community organizations need us more now than ever. (Especially those who have supported the most vulnerable and at-risk populations during COVID-19).

As we slowly (and carefully) venture out more in the upcoming summer months, I encourage you to keep thinking of ways to give back to the organizations that matter to you.