ST. JOHN'S, NL – Bell Aliant and the Bell Aliant Pioneer Volunteers kicked off the holiday season today by donating more than $53,200 to 72 organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador. The donations are part of Bell Aliant's community program that focuses on mental health initiatives and other grassroots programs across the Province.
Each year, employees and retirees gather with community partners to celebrate the season and provide support for a variety of programs that help make a difference in the lives for many families in our communities.
"The Christmas donation program has been a tradition for 27 years for Bell Aliant employees and our Pioneer volunteers," said Elizabeth Clift, Director, Customer Care, Bell Aliant. "Seeing the impact of the contributions and volunteer hours in the local community really reminds us of the true meaning of the season."
In these challenging economic times, many community groups are grateful for the consistent support they receive from Bell Aliant and the Pioneers. "We are thankful for the contribution that Bell Aliant provides, not only to our association, but to the many programs that are delivered all around our region and can use a helping hand this time of year," said Eg Walters, General Manager, Community Food Sharing Association.
Since 1985, Bell Aliant and the Bell Aliant Pioneers have been assisting organizations in the province carry out their work at Christmas with cash contributions, volunteer efforts and donations of Christmas stockings. This year the Pioneers have collected 223 stockings filled with gifts from Bell Aliant employees. These stockings are distributed by community based organizations to families in need across the Province.
Representatives from a number of charities were on hand to receive their donations and were joined by Bell Aliant employees, retirees and their families.
