Carefor employee reminds us of caring Holiday spirit via support of Ottawa Food Bank.

Carefor Health & Community Services is a well-established brand in Ottawa's community of not-for-profit and charitable organizations. Because of this, many employees who work here have a longstanding tradition of being both advocates and leaders within their communities. Elli, a district coordinator at Carefor's corporate office in Ottawa, is no exception to this tradition.

Like many of us, Elli is extremely excited for the upcoming holiday season, filled with joyous times, good company, and great food. Unlike many of us, however, Elli is worried about those who can't get excited about the coming holiday season: those who don't have enough money for presents and can't afford a holiday meal this December.

Elli decided a long time ago to be a helper, not just a thinker. Starting on November 15th, 2010, she will be leading Carefor in yet another Christmas food bank collection on behalf of the Ottawa Food Bank, filled with fun and well-intentioned competition that employees are still talking about from last year.

Carefor Health & Community Services is proud to be a part of this great initiative for the second consecutive year. As a charitable organization, we understand just how important stimulating conversation and action among people can be in order to help those in need. All staff, volunteers and clients are welcome and encouraged to join Carefor and Elli in making donations of food items, paper goods and hygiene items to the Ottawa Food Bank to help fight community hunger this season. It's an added bonus that we'll be helping to bring smiles to the faces of children, parents and friends who could use a helping hand.

Much like last year, we will be stirring up a friendly competition among staff at the Carefor corporate office on 760 Belfast. All departments will be pitted against one another to see who can lead the way as the most charitable group of Carefor employees! Last year, the Home Support department came in first, followed by the VNP staff and Admin staff coming in third.

The Ottawa Food Bank has been serving the citizens of Ottawa since 1984, and distributes an average of 12 tons of food per day from their Michael Street warehouse. They provide support to 43,000 people in need of emergency food assistance.

Please join Elli and Carefor in the coming weeks and months by sharing your holiday spirit with those in need. Ottawa Food Bank boxes and other materials have been placed throughout the office and reception area for your convenience.

To learn more about the Ottawa Food Bank, or to start a Christmas Food Bank Collection at your place of work, click here.