Fraserside’s Ugly Holiday Van is Festive Fun
Members of Fraserside’s New Leaf Clubhouse have decorated their old passenger van for a bit of festive fun, transforming the old vehicle into an ugly holiday van.
New Leaf Clubhouse is currently fundraising to replace the 17-year-old vehicle, that is used to transport members living with mental health issues to community outings such as the Greater Vancouver Zoo, Burnaby Village Museum, Dr. Sun Yet Sun Gardens as well as baseball and floor hockey games against other clubhouses. Employees also rely on the van to pick up supplies and groceries for programs.
The New Leaf Clubhouse in New Westminster has been supporting adults who live with chronic mental health issues for 14 years. New Leaf provides rehabilitation programs in personal wellness, employment, life skills, counselling, recreation as well as operating a food bank.
New Leaf employees came up with the idea of decorating the van, as a fun activity for members to take part in and to raise awareness about the fundraiser.
“This van provides a valuable connection for those living with mental illness to the greater community.” says Fraserside’s CEO, Lynda Edmonds. “Our members do not have the means to participate in these activities without the Clubhouse. We have to replace this van so we can continue to help people experience meaningful community belonging.”
The aging 15- seat van, is on its last legs and needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Fraserside has raised half of the $70,000 needed to replace the van and aims raise enough funds by mid-January.
Donations are gratefully accepted toward the van online: www.fraserside.bc.ca/donate
By Mail: #330-550 Sixth Street, New Westminster BC V3L 3B7
Or by phone: 604-522-3722 ext. 111
